Patil's Presidency a matter of national pride: Sonia

Eluru, Sept 1 (UNI) Highlighting the need and importance of women empowerment in the country's development, Congress President Sonia Gandhi today observed that having a woman Head of the State was a proud moment for the nation.

The Congress party had always given a place of pride to women, she said while inaugurating the urban Indira Kanthi Patham for Women Self Help Groups here.

Recalling the contributions of Indira Gandhi as the Prime Minister and party President, the she also pointed out that three women had headed the Indian National Congress during the freedom struggle.

The UPA Chairperson observed that equal opportunities should be provided to both men and women for the overall development of the nation.

''Financial independence would pave way for the empowerment of women. It would bring in more prosperity and happiness not only to their houses, states but also to the country,'' she noted.

Formation of self-help groups (SHGs) throughout the country have become a social revolution, providing employment and monetary independence to women.

Out of 20 lakh SHGs in the country, maximum SHGs were in Andhra Pradesh, thereby becoming a model for other states to emulate, she said.

Ms Gandhi said these groups would help in enhancing self-confidence among women and improving the future of the coming generations.

UNI