Marking Women’s Day, Ms. Shivani Wagh, Joint MD of Supriya Lifescience Ltd., emphasizes the critical role of women in shaping India’s economic journey toward becoming a $5 trillion economy. The Union Budget 2025-26, with ₹4.49 lakh crore allocated for gender-focused initiatives—a 37.5% increase—signals progress, but meaningful change lies in how these funds are implemented at the grassroots.
Today, women lead over 14% of enterprises in India, reflecting their growing presence in entrepreneurship. However, challenges like limited access to capital persist. Enhanced credit support, self-employment schemes, and investments in STEM education are vital to breaking gender barriers in high-value sectors.
True empowerment, Wagh insists, must extend beyond policy to societal transformation—through inclusive workplaces, increased representation in leadership, and equity-driven mindsets. While initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Jan Dhan Yojana have laid the groundwork, the next frontier is about accelerating real, lasting opportunity for women.
As Wagh poignantly asks, “Are we building a system where women can truly lead?” The answer will shape not only the workforce—but the nation’s future.
