Former Rajya Sabha MP and CEC member Dr Amee Yajnik on Tuesday highlighted the significant strides made by the ‘Shakti Abhiyan’ campaign, emphasising its role in empowering women in governance.
At a joint press conference held at Rajiv Gandhi Bhavan in Ahmedabad, senior Congress leaders Sonal Patel, Dr Amee Yajnik, and Jeniben Thummar, President of Gujarat Pradesh Women’s Congress, presented the progress of the party’s campaign.
A key part of the Shakti Abhiyan is the ‘Indira Fellowship Programme’, named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The initiative seeks to create equal space for women in governance at all levels, including local self-government institutions, legislative assemblies, and parliament. It aims to ensure women’s representation in decision-making and address their interests in politics.
Dr. Amee Yajnik praised Rahul Gandhi for his leadership in launching the Shakti Abhiyan. She highlighted the creation of 25-member clubs at the local and district levels to address women’s issues.
“While the Women’s Reservation Bill is still pending, we are focused on training and supporting women to take up leadership roles,” Yajnik stated.
Thummar, in her remarks, highlighted the rapid progress of the initiative, stating, “In just one year, more than 350 fellows have created 4,300 Shakti Clubs with 31,000 members across 28 states and 300 talukas. These clubs serve as key points for organising the Shakti Abhiyan.”
The Congress Party has long been committed to promoting gender equality in politics. A significant milestone in this effort was the introduction of 33% reservation for women in local self-government institutions, a decision made under the leadership of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
This move, aimed at enhancing women’s participation in politics, has since empowered women across various levels of government, from village heads to parliamentarians.
Patel discussed the party’s commitment to training and supporting women who wish to enter politics.
“Today, 50% of candidates in local body elections are women, but we want to see them rise to state and national levels as well. The Congress Party will provide training, mentorship, and support for women looking to contest elections through various programmes,” she said.
Rajnikant Kade, National Coordinator of the AICC Indira Fellowship Programme, extended an open invitation for women across India to join the Shakti Abhiyan. He urged women to actively engage in politics and help build strong grassroots organisations.
“We offer both online and offline registration, making it easier for women to join and make an impact,” Kade added.
This fellowship was launched a year ago to strengthen women’s voices in politics and promote female leadership.
Also Read: Garba Venue Offers Rain-Free Celebration
