Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Wednesday distributed free laptops to top-performing female students of his constituency, describing the gesture as a symbolic Diwali gift to encourage women’s education and empowerment.
Speaking at the event, Dr Singh said the Modi government has consistently prioritised initiatives aimed at empowering women, particularly through education and entrepreneurship. “In the last 11 years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has worked tirelessly to promote girls’ education and launched several dedicated schemes for their welfare,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements of women in competitive examinations, Dr Singh noted that female candidates have been consistently securing top positions in the Civil Services. “In 2014, around 15 to 16 toppers were female candidates. Last year, two of the top three positions in the IAS exams were secured by women. Today, girls from far-off places like Kishtwar and Rajouri are qualifying for the civil services.
This is the result of the democratisation of opportunities and access to information made possible under PM Modi’s leadership,” he said.
He added that with technology and digital access, determined students no longer need expensive coaching. “Everything they require for preparation is available on laptops and mobile phones,” he said.
Dr Singh also underlined that the National Education Policy (NEP) has simplified and modernised education, making it more accessible. Citing other government initiatives, he said that India has witnessed an explosion in start-ups—from about 400 in 2014 to over 1.75 lakh today—of which nearly 50,000 to 60,000 are women-led.
“Women are now leading projects in space exploration, including Aditya and Chandrayaan-3. Under the Mudra Yojana, ₹54.5 crore loans have been distributed without the need for collateral, and 68% of these have gone to women entrepreneurs,” the minister said.
Calling the laptops a token of encouragement, Dr Singh remarked, “On the occasion of Diwali, what better gift could there be for meritorious girl students? May they achieve their goals, and may we serve as a small means to their success.”
He further emphasised that this is the same government that has extended maternity leave to six months and introduced mid-career schemes for women, reinforcing its commitment to gender equity and empowerment.(KINS)
