By IANS
New Delhi : Indian women were transforming the “social order into a more just and equal one”, President Pratibha Patil said Friday as she greeted women a day ahead of International Women’s Day.
India’s first woman president said successful women should assist in eliminating social evils like female foeticide, infanticide and dowry system and educate the underprivileged girl child.
“On the occasion of International Women’s Day, I extend my greetings and felicitations to all my sisters in their continuing role and their relentless effort in shaping the destiny of our country,” she said in her message.
International Women’s Day, which will be observed Saturday, is a global celebration for the economic, political and social achievements of women.
Highlighting the role of the women in the freedom movement, Patil said: “Our women folk inspired by Mahatma Gandhi came out of their homes to take part in the freedom struggle.”
“Beginning with their determined efforts in the days before our freedom, today our women continue to strive to transform the social order into a more just and equal one.”
She said women continue to make their mark but should help in removing social evils from the country.
“Now, many gifted women are making their mark in their chosen professions and each one of them can assist in eliminating social evils like female foeticide, infanticide, dowry etc.
“They should come forward and help to educate the hapless underprivileged girl child. The empowerment of women is the most effective tool for development as well as poverty alleviation.”