Ms. Shivani Wagh, Joint Managing Director, Supriya Lifescience Ltd.
On this Women’s Day, it is essential to recognise that women are not just contributors but key drivers of India’s economic growth. The Union Budget 2025-26 reflects this understanding, with ₹4.49 lakh crore allocated towards gender-focused initiatives—a decisive step in bridging gaps in education, skill development, and financial inclusion. A 37.5% increase in budgetary support is encouraging, but real empowerment comes when these investments translate into sustainable opportunities on the ground.
With over 14% of Indian enterprises headed by women, women-led entrepreneurship is on the rise. This shift is not just a statistic, it demonstrates how resilient and innovative women are in business. In spite of this, access to capital remains a challenge, making credit programs and self-employment schemes crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs. In addition, investments in STEM education and advanced manufacturing will be crucial to breaking gender barriers in high-value industries.
Yet, true empowerment goes beyond policy—it requires a societal shift. More women in leadership, greater workplace inclusivity, and a mindset that fosters equity are just as important as financial support. Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana have laid a strong foundation, but the next step is accelerating action. As we celebrate Women’s Day, we must ask: Are we creating an ecosystem where women can not only enter the workforce but also thrive, innovate, and lead? The future of our economy depends on how we answer that question.
