Bengaluru: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the inaugural session of the International Women’s Conference of the Art of Living in Bengaluru today. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that India’s Nari Shakti is rising to aspire, achieve, and contribute. Whether in science, sport, politics, art, or culture, our sisters and daughters are moving ahead, holding their heads high. They are making their families, institutions, and the country proud. It is not possible to break barriers and challenge stereotypes without mental strength. She urged every woman to gather courage, dream big, and utilise all her strength and potential to achieve her dreams. She said that every little step each of them takes towards their goal is a step towards a developed India.
The President said that we are in the age of technological disruption. Advances in technology have given us a better quality of life in some ways. In such a competitive world, we must ensure that our human values remain intact. In fact, every human being needs to put in extra effort consciously to promote human values of compassion, love, and unity. This is where the role of women becomes very important. Women have a special ability to lead through compassion. They hold the ability to look beyond the individual and work for the well-being of families, communities, and even relationships at a global level. She expressed confidence that all the women attending this conference would come out with spiritual principles that can be applied by people to make their lives, and also the lives of those around them, more beautiful and peaceful.
The President was happy to note that the Art of Living is undertaking several initiatives in the field of education. She said that there is no greater investment in humanity than the education of our children. With the right guidance and support, many children can become active participants in the journey of our nation. She also highlighted the need to work together to deal with global challenges like climate change. She urged everyone to deliberate upon issues related to environmental conservation.