Women key drivers of national development today: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday said women are not only carriers of tradition but also powerful agents of change and are now emerging as key contributors to national development. Women in positions of responsibility should lead the way for others to make it easier for the coming generations to progress, Gupta said at a national conference of women thinkers -- 'Bharati - Nari Se Narayani' -- at Vigyan Bhawan here on the eve of International Women's Day. The chief minister said the empowerment of women in India has gained momentum under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has become a collective responsibility of society. It has moved from the government's 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' initiative towards a broader vision of 'Beti Badhao' to encourage women to lead and contribute actively to nation-building, she said. Indian culture has long regarded women as symbols of strength, creation and values. Ancient texts and traditions reflect the respect accorded to