Nation observing 100th International Women's Day

New Delhi, Mar 8 (ANI): The nation is celebrating the 100th International Women's Day today.

President Pratibha Patil will confer the Stree Shakti Awards at a function here. The 'Stree Shakti Puraskars' are given to women for their outstanding and exceptional work in field of women empowerment.

The Rajasthan Government has decided to allow women to travel free in all categories of State Roadways buses today.

In a bid to encourage women to join the police force, the Mumbai Police will elevate a woman police inspector to the rank of senior inspector and make her the head of a police station.

The city police will also announce the selection of 10 women constables as drivers.resident Patil and Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar have stressed on the need for women empowerment for the progress of the country.

In her message, President Patil said: "Every year, we celebrate International Women's Day to recognize the dedication and achievements of women. This year is even more special, as this is the 100th year of its observation."

"Indian women as part of this epoch making movement have played an exemplary role and will continue to be a major determinant of our future progress and inclusive growth," she added.

Kumar, in her message, called for a change in the mindset of society towards women. (ANI)