"Today, some individuals perceive secularism under threat; PM Modi in Bhopal celebrates the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar."
India Commemorates Ahilyabai Holkar's 300th Birth Anniversary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the legacy of 18th-century Holkar ruler, Ahilyabai Holkar, at an event in Bhopal, marking her 300th birth anniversary. The occasion saw the release of a commemorative Rs 300 coin and a postal stamp.
PM Modi emphasized that the government's vision of public service aligns with Ahilyabai's philosophy of governance-to serve the people and improve their lives. Highlighting her progressive views on women's rights, he reiterated his government's commitment to women-led development.
He highlighted the strides made in this regard, stating that millions of women have become homeowners for the first time, with over four crore houses built for the poor, most of which are registered in the names of women. The Prime Minister emphasized the central role women play in the country's development agenda, taking on leading roles in infrastructure and welfare schemes.
PM Modi also criticized the Opposition for raising concerns about the age of marriage for women, likening it to a threat to secularism. He contrasted this with Ahilyabai, a symbol of maternal strength, who, centuries ago, thought deeply about the appropriate age for daughters' marriage.
During the event, PM Modi hailed the courage and leadership of India's women soldiers. He praised the Border Security Force (BSF), particularly its women personnel, for their critical role in responding to cross-border threats with strength and precision, during Operation Sindoor.
Speaking about Operation Sindoor, he said it fulfilled a promise made in Bihar. He commended the BSF, stating that they stood at the frontlines in Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, to Rajasthan, and gave a fitting reply to enemy firing. He reiterated India's tough stance on national security, declaring, "Every one of our 140 crore citizens says-if you fire a bullet, it will be answered with a cannonball."
The Prime Minister, while invoking Ahilyabai's forward-thinking stance on women's issues, also virtually inaugurated the Indore Metro and the new airports at Datia and Satna. He laid the foundation stone for several development initiatives and urged farmers to embrace crop diversification, moving beyond traditional staples like rice and sugarcane, following Ahilyabai's advice to promote cotton and spice farming.
Ahilyabai Holkar is celebrated not only for rebuilding over 130 temples across India but also for her progressive reforms, including property rights for women, widow remarriage, and anti-dowry laws. Her legacy continues to inspire women to take on leadership roles and demonstrate that women can effectively manage power and contribute significantly to society.
- The defi market might consider issuing a coin commemorating Ahilyabai Holkar, given the release of a Rs 300 coin in her honor.
- In the finance sector, women-led development is a key focus, as evidenced by the large number of houses built for the poor, most of which are registered in the names of women.
- The science and health-and-wellness community could learn from Ahilyabai Holkar's progressive views on women's rights, particularly her thoughts on the appropriate age for daughters' marriage.
- In the realm of women's health, Ahilyabai Holkar's legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that women can effectively manage power and contribute significantly to society.
- The business world would benefit from emulating Ahilyabai Holkar's leadership, as she matter-of-factly took on leading roles in infrastructure and welfare schemes.
- In the landscape of general news, the Indian government's stance on national security, as demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, warrants close attention, with the Prime Minister declaring a tough stance on matters of security.
