On Monday 21 August, President Droupadi Murmu participated in ‘ASMITA’ an event organised by AWWA (Army Wives Welfare Association). In this grand event at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, she praised  ‘Nari Shakti’ and said women have achieved great heights in many fields varying from “missile to music” by defeating all odds. During the event, a ‘Veer Nari’ who is also an entrepreneur, and teacher from Jharkhand, shared some harsh and painful stories about her life and how she overcame difficulties with sheer perseverance and determination. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s wife Sudesh Dhankhar and Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi also participated in the event. 

Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) is a non-profit organisation in India working for spouses, children or dependents of army personnel. The association was founded in 1966 and its purpose is the rehabilitation of war widows and war victims. In other cases, the association organises professional training and authorises the beneficiaries. Mrs Archana Pande, wife of General Manoj Pande is currently serving as President of the organisation. 

In her speech, the President praised “Nari Shakti” and emphasised the contribution of women to the development of society and the nation as a whole. “In every aspect of life, women have reached great heights by facing and overcoming all odds,” she said. She also praised the efforts made by AWWA to help all the ‘Veer Naris’ and their contribution to helping the dependents of army personnel”.

AWWA president Archana Pande lauded Murmu for her achievements and said the president herself is an “example of Nari Shakti.” Before going to the event, President Murmu was given a tour of the various kiosks set up by members of the association. which boost self-confidence and entrepreneurship for women empowerment. Many women face a lot in society but conquer all the evils present around them. 

‘Veer Naris’ (army widow) was felicitated by the organisation on Friday, 18 August. They will also be awarded on the occasion of Military Women’s Welfare Association Day celebrated here on August 23. Twenty Veer Naris and families of soldiers from various parts of the country were awarded for their sacrifices including combat casualties and selfless service to the nation.