As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, we honor the women who are actively shaping a brighter future through empowerment, education, and resilience. Across Rajasthan, eight dynamic women are leading initiatives that challenge societal norms and foster a culture of strength and independence. From education to self-defense, health to financial literacy, these leaders are creating new pathways for progress, proving that when women rise, they lift society with them.
Mission Nedar – Strengthening Young Girls
Shubham Choudhary, Collector & District Magistrate of Sawai Madhopur, understands that confidence is the foundation of empowerment. Through Mission Nedar, she ensures that young girls develop the courage to stand up against crime and violence. Over 28,000 girls have already participated in self-defense training and police station visits, giving them the confidence to report harassment and explore careers in law enforcement. “A strong girl today is a fearless woman tomorrow,” she believes. By instilling strength and awareness at an early age, Mission Nedar is shaping a safer, more equitable future for women.
Bridging Gaps in Tribal Communities
Anjali Rajoria, Collector & District Magistrate of Pratapgarh, is transforming the lives of women in Tribal Sub-Plan areas through targeted initiatives. Babul Ki Bitiya connects women with Self-Help Groups, government benefits, and skill development programs, ensuring financial and social stability. Mission Navodaya trains women in self-defense and psychological counseling, empowering them to support their communities. “Empowerment is not just about education or finances; it’s about confidence and self-reliance,” she says. Her commitment to financial independence, education, and skill development is shaping a future where women stand strong, independent, and unstoppable.Maru Udaan – Elevating Women’s Health and Independence
Tina Dabi, Collector & District Magistrate of Barmer, is at the forefront of Maru Udaan, an initiative revolutionizing women’s empowerment in Western Rajasthan. Under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao program, Maru Udaan is tackling critical health issues such as anemia and calcium deficiencies, conducting expert-led cancer screenings, and equipping rural women with financial literacy. “Good health is the foundation of empowerment. When women are strong, families and communities thrive,” she emphasizes. By forging strategic CSR partnerships, this initiative is not only improving well-being but also fostering self-sufficiency, allowing women to take control of their futures with confidence and determination.Mission Shakti – Ensuring Safety and Well-being
Artika Shukla, Collector & District Magistrate of Alwar, is championing women’s safety and empowerment through Mission Shakti. She believes that true empowerment starts when women feel safe, informed, and financially independent. “A woman who feels safe is a woman who can dream, achieve, and inspire,” she affirms. Mission Shakti educates communities on women’s rights, enhances safety with improved infrastructure like streetlights and pink toilets, and ensures quick justice through a dedicated grievance cell. Additionally, Mission Akash addresses anemia and malnutrition by integrating health records with Self-Help Groups. Through her efforts, Alwar is witnessing a transformation where women walk with confidence, strength, and fearlessness.
Ensuring Safety, Health and Economic Empowerment for Women
“When women have access to safe, high-quality products, they gain the confidence to take control of their lives and make empowered choices,” says Kanika Kalia, Director at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). She is leading initiatives to enhance women’s safety, health, and economic independence through stringent quality standards. Under her leadership, BIS has set benchmarks for sanitary napkins (IS 5405), baby diapers (IS 17509), helmets (IS 4151), and essential kitchen appliances, ensuring reliability in daily life. She has also played a significant role in mandatory hallmarking for gold jewelry, enabling women to make informed purchases with confidence. By encouraging women’s participation in technical committees and policymaking, she is championing inclusive, gender-responsive standards that empower women to lead safer, healthier, and more independent lives.
Inspiring Generations Through Education
Dr. Jayshree Periwal, Founder and Chairperson of the Jayshree Periwal Group of Schools, is a steadfast advocate for the transformative power of education. “Women must be the architects of their own destiny,” she asserts. Leading 12,000 young minds, she instills resilience, independence, and a fearless approach to breaking stereotypes. Beyond classrooms, her vision ensures that educated and empowered women uplift entire communities, leaving a lasting impact on society.
Revamping Success Through Fashion and Women-Led Startups
As the Chairperson of FICCI FLO, Raghushree Poddar firmly believes that empowerment begins in the mind. She has spearheaded initiatives that promote financial independence, cultural pride, and confidence among women. “Empowerment is about providing opportunities, breaking barriers, and instilling self-belief,” she says. From hosting fashion shows that redefine beauty standards to organizing startup conclaves supporting female entrepreneurs, her leadership is creating new opportunities. Unique experiences like naval base visits, trekking expeditions, and business networking events have instilled resilience and self-belief in countless women. By uplifting artisans, promoting digital literacy, and fostering economic participation, FICCI FLO is paving the way for a future where women lead with conviction.
Empowering Women in the Workplace and Beyond
Rangoli Agrawal, Brand Strategist at NAV India, is dedicated to fostering confidence, inclusivity, and flexibility in the workplace. She believes that true growth comes not just from knowledge but also from the freedom to voice opinions and pursue opportunities. “Empowerment begins with confidence—when women are encouraged to speak up, learn, and take charge of their own paths, they can achieve anything,” she says. Beyond her professional role, she actively encourages the women in her family to follow their dreams, as seen in her mother’s inspiring journey of joining art school at 40. In the fast-evolving branding industry, she emphasizes adaptability and continuous learning, urging women to stay curious, embrace new trends, and never give up.
Celebrating Women Who Inspire Change
These eight leaders exemplify how vision, courage, and action can transform lives. Their dedication to education, safety, health, and economic independence is creating lasting impact, not just for individuals but for entire communities.
This Women’s Day, let’s not only celebrate these trailblazers but also take inspiration from their work. Empowerment is a collective effort. Support a woman-led business, mentor a young girl, or advocate for women’s rights in your community. Because when women rise, they lift society with them.
