Empower women for a stable society: Barnala

Chennai, Feb 10 (UNI) Women empowerment would help the formation of a stable society which in turn would lead to the growth and development of the nation, said Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala.

Addressing the Sadguru Gnanananda Eighth National Awards - 2007 function here today he said, '' Though women held very important positions in ancient Indian society, their position gradually deteriorated as the golden Vedic ideals of gender equality began to fade through passage of time.'' He said though the country, on attainment of Independence, tried to redeem the situation by proclaiming equality of gender as a fundamental right under the Constitution, empowerment of women had still not been achieved fully.

When women were empowered, there would be stability in society leading to growth and development of the nation. 'With the active participation of more and more women in all fields, our country is moving towards becoming a developed nation.' Mr Barnala said women had played an active role in the development and organisation of voluntary social welfare work in India.

He said scores of women had dedicated themselves and taken it upon themselves to contribute for social change by their service to humanity, especially to needy women and children.

It was the bounden duty of voluntary organisations to motivate, encourage and honour them for selfless service and sacrifice.

UNI