Women's role very key to Atma Nirbhar India: Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan

Hyderabad: Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan virtually addressed the inaugural of the three-day "Women Entrepreneurs' and Scientists' Conclave" held at the India International Science Festival (IISF), organised by the CSIR-NEERI, New Delhi on Tuesday.

She stated that women's role is vital in achieving the goal of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, the self-reliant India. "It is disheartening to find that the women's representation is less than 20 per cent among the total entrepreneurs in our country. Similarly, women constitute less than 15 per cent of the scientists in the country. If all the women who are not into remunerative work enter the workforce, our country will be at least 27 per cent richer. It will lead to equal, equitable and inclusive society," she added.

Elaborating on the importance of promoting entrepreneurship among women in our country, the governor said that women-owned enterprises have the potential to create150- 170 million new jobs. "They have the capability to transform the employment in the country. Women's equality and closing the gender gap are likely to help the country's GDP gain 16 per cent by 2025," she added, suggesting special provisions, increased funding, and the creation of exclusive institutions to promote entrepreneurship among women in our country. She called for increased seats for women in engineering and technical institutions and more number of fellowships to encourage women scientists.

Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani was the guest of honour. Ministry of Science and Technology Secretary Dr Renu Swarup, CSIR Director-General Dr Shekhar C Mande, NEERI Director Dr Rakesh Kumar and IISF Principal Coordinator Dr Atya Kalpley were among others who spoke at the inaugural. A host of women entrepreneurs and scientists from across the country took part in the programme.