Dehradun, March 8, 2026(RNS).
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday honoured 38 senior women from across the state at the “Nari Tu Narayani” programme held at the Chief Sevak Sadan in Dehradun. The women were recognised for their outstanding contributions in fields such as education, social service, entrepreneurship, environmental conservation, agriculture, culture and water conservation.
Extending greetings on International Women’s Day, the Chief Minister said that the women being honoured have strengthened the foundation of families, society and the nation through their sacrifice, struggle, affection and values. He said that the love, dedication and blessings of women help shape future generations and ensure continuous progress in society.
The Chief Minister noted that women, especially as mothers, often sacrifice their own comforts to ensure the growth and success of their children. He also said that senior women play a crucial role in preserving culture, traditions and moral values within families.
Highlighting the contribution of women in Uttarakhand, Dhami said that the role of the state’s women is particularly inspiring and commendable. Women in the hill state not only take care of their families but also work in fields and manage agricultural activities. Despite difficult circumstances, they continue to move forward with resilience and determination. “The mothers of Uttarakhand have contributed immensely to the progress of the state through their hard work and courage. The real strength of the mountains lies in its women,” he said.
The Chief Minister also stressed that serving senior citizens and elderly mothers is a collective responsibility of society. He said the state government is implementing several welfare schemes to empower women, particularly senior women. Financial assistance is being provided through old age pension and widow pension schemes. The government is also strengthening healthcare services for the elderly and improving facilities in old age homes across the state.
Dhami added that the government is providing free pilgrimage facilities to senior citizens and is committed to ensuring that every elderly mother in Uttarakhand lives with dignity, safety and self-respect. Cabinet Minister Rekha Arya said that women who excel in different fields serve as an inspiration for society. She emphasised that an active life keeps individuals energetic and fulfilled. According to her, women empowerment begins at home and gradually spreads across society and the nation. She added that the lives of the honoured women, marked by struggle, patience and dedication to society, are a valuable source of inspiration.
Secretary Chandresh Kumar Yadav informed that the main theme of this year’s programme was “Give to Gain.” In line with this theme, women above the age of 60 who remain active, self-reliant and continue contributing significantly to society were selected for the honour.
He further said that to ensure transparency and representation, one woman each from the lower-income, middle-income and higher-income categories was selected from every district. District-level committees were formed to ensure a fair and transparent selection process so that inspiring women from different sections of society could be recognised. Women from districts including Dehradun, Nainital, Rudraprayag, Champawat, Pauri Garhwal, Almora, Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Bageshwar, Tehri Garhwal, Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar and Pithoragarh were honoured during the programme. Among those present on the occasion were Vice Chairman of the Uttarakhand Tribal Advisory Council Geeta Ram Gaud, Director B. L. Rana, Vikram Singh, S. K. Tripathi, Mohit Chaudhary and several other dignitaries.
