International Women’s Day 2025: From Poor to Empowered women

Empowered Women, Empower Humanity: Celebrating Strength, Health, and Sacrifice on International Women’s Day 2025 (March 8)

Introduction

Every year, on March 8th, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements, resilience, and sacrifices of women throughout history. Women are the backbone of society, contributing in every sphere—whether as mothers, leaders, warriors, caregivers, or innovators. In India, this day holds special significance, as it echoes the triumphs of women like Savitribai Phule, the pioneer of female education, and Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-born woman in space. Their stories, alongside countless others, remind us to honor unwavering courage, promote health and wellness, and reinforce the global importance of gender equality.

The History of International Women’s Day

The Power and Courage of Women

This year, we are celebrating International Women’s Day 2025, from fighting for suffrage to leading nations, women have time and again proven their ability to challenge norms and create change. Globally, figures like Malala Yousafzai and Ruth Bader Ginsburg inspire us, but India’s history is equally rich with trailblazers. Rani Lakshmibai defied colonial rule, while Dr. Kiran Bedi became India’s first female IPS officer, reshaping perceptions of women in law enforcement. In science, Dr. Tessy Thomas, known as the “Missile Woman of India,” spearheaded ballistic missile development.

Courage also thrives in everyday acts. Consider the ASHA workers—rural health volunteers—who trek miles to ensure maternal care in remote villages, or mothers in agrarian communities balancing farm labor and family care. Their resilience, though unsung, fuels progress.

Women’s Health and Wellness: A Cornerstone of Empowerment

While women achieve remarkable feats, their health must remain a priority. In India, initiatives like the Janani Suraksha Yojana provide free antenatal care, reducing maternal mortality by 50% since 2000. Yet, challenges persist: anemia affects 53% of Indian women, underscoring the need for balanced nutrition.

1. Physical Health
   • Ayushman Bharat: This scheme offers free health screenings to 50 crore Indians, prioritizing women’s access to preventive care.
   • Traditional Practices: Yoga, rooted in Indian culture, enhances hormonal balance and mental clarity.
   • Balanced Nutrition: A diet rich in iron, calcium, and essential vitamins helps maintain long-term vitality.
   • Exercise: Strength training and cardiovascular workouts help in maintaining fitness, hormonal balance, and mental well-being.
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2. Mental and Emotional Well-Being
   • Meditation and Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness reduces stress and fosters clarity and focus.
   • Therapy and Support Groups: Talking to a professional or joining a women’s support group can help in emotional healing.
   • Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no and prioritizing personal well-being is crucial.
   • NIMHANS Initiatives: India’s premier mental health institute runs workshops for rural women on stress management.
   • Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Over 70 lakh SHGs empower women to discuss issues like domestic violence openly.
3. Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Techniques
   • Reframing Negative Thoughts: Transform limiting beliefs (e.g., “I’m not strong enough”) into empowering affirmations (“I am powerful and capable”).
   • Anchoring Positive States: Associating a physical action (such as a deep breath or touching a specific point on the hand) with feelings of confidence and peace.
   • Visualization: Imagining a successful and happy version of oneself reinforces self-worth and motivation.

The Sacrifices Women Make for Society

Indian women often navigate dual roles—managing careers while upholding familial duties. For instance, Lijjat Papad’s cooperative, entirely run by women, balances entrepreneurship with homemaking. Rural women, like those in Kerala’s Kudumbashree collective, invest hours in micro-enterprises while caring for families. Such sacrifices highlight the need for systemic support, like India’s extended maternity leave (26 weeks) and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, promoting girls’ education.

Moving Forward: How We Can Support Women

1. Advocate for Equal Opportunities
   • Corporate India: Companies like Tata and Infosys have instituted gender-neutral parental leave and leadership programs.
   • Legal Reforms: The 2021 amendment to the Maternity Benefit Act mandates crèches in offices with 50+ employees.
2. Encourage Women’s Health and Self-Care
   • Digital Solutions: Platforms like Practo and MFine offer teleconsultations, bridging urban-rural healthcare gaps.
   • Community Efforts: Anganwadi workers conduct nutrition workshops, emphasizing iron-rich diets for adolescent girls.
3. Educate the Next Generation
   • STEM for Girls: Atal Tinkering Labs encourage girls to pursue tech careers, while Vigyan Jyoti scholarships support STEM education.
   • Gender Sensitivity: CBSE’s curriculum now includes chapters on consent and equality, fostering respect from a young age.

Conclusion

Women’s Day is not just a celebration—it is a call to action. In India, where tradition and modernity coexist, empowering women means honoring farm laborers and CEOs alike. Let’s pledge to support policies like equal pay and healthcare access, celebrate stories of resilience from Kerala to Kashmir, and prioritize well-being daily. When Indian women rise, they carry families, communities, and the nation forward.

Happy International Women’s Day!

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