PM Modi praises 'Nari Shakti Puraskar' winners interact for inspiring others

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday interacted with the recipients of the Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honour for women, and said their work is an inspiration for others. Forty-four women, including an acid attack survivor and India's first woman marine pilot and three institutions, were conferred the prestigious award by President Ram Nath Kovind Friday at a special ceremony organised at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

The Prime Minister on Saturday met with the winners and congratulated them for their achievements. He said their work is an inspiration for others and exhorted them to go even further in their respective fields, according to a statement by the prime minister's office.

Referring to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the PM said its success is attributable in large measure to the fact that women have given importance to it. Mentioning the recently concluded Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the Prime Minister said this time it has been the subject of discussion because of the high standards of cleanliness and sanitation there.

Modi said the next step in the Swachhta movement should be the conversion of waste into wealth, the statement said. He also touched upon the issues of tackling malnutrition, and vaccinations for children through Mission Indradhanush. The PM said in both these areas, women have a key role to play in ensuring success.

Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi was also present on the occasion. To acknowledge women's achievements, the Ministry of Women and Child Development confers Nari Shakti Puraskar on women and institutions in recognition of their relentless service towards the cause of women empowerment and social welfare.

The 44 awardees include DRDO scientist Ipsita Biswas, India's first woman marine pilot Reshma Nilofer Naha, the expert on subjects of agro-biodiversity Rahibai Soma Popere, acid attack survivor Pragya Prasun, woman commando trainer Seema Rao and motivational speaker Sister Shivani, among others. The Nari Shakti Puraskar, the highest civilian honour for women, has also been awarded to a One Stop Centre (OSC), Lucknow, Qasab-Kutch Craftswomen Producer and Social Welfare and Nutritious Meal Programme Department of Tamil Nadu.

(With inputs from agencies.)