Ahilyabai Holkar: Symbol of Women’s Contribution to Nation-Building - PM Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar is a symbol of the invaluable contribution of women power in nation-building. Paying respectful tribute to Ahilyabai Holkar, who brought significant social change, PM Modi recalled her inspirational quote: “Whatever we have is a debt given by the people – we must repay it.”
He stated that his government is working with the same spirit, emphasizing the governance mantra: “Citizen is God (Nagrik Devo Bhava).”
The 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai is an inspiration for all Indians and an opportunity to contribute to the monumental efforts of nation-building. She believed that “the purpose of governance is to serve the people and improve their lives,” and the government remains committed to this vision.
Women-Led Development at the Forefront
The government is promoting women-led development as a central pillar of progress. Most of the four crore houses built for the poor are registered in the names of women, making them homeowners for the first time. Schemes like piped water supply, electricity, and the Ujjwala gas connections are ensuring dignity and convenience for women and girls.
PM Modi addressed the Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan (Women Empowerment Conference) held at Jamboree Ground, Bhopal. He visited an exhibition showcasing Ahilyabai Holkar’s contributions to good governance, women’s self-reliance, and development of religious sites. Research papers and books centered on her legacy were also displayed.
Women Empowerment Initiatives and Recognitions
PM Modi interacted with women engaged in handloom, handicrafts, and drone technology. He reviewed efforts related to women’s participation in rural housing, tourism, agriculture, and local governance. He also paid tribute to Ahilyabai’s statue in the presence of Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.
Four prominent women welcomed PM Modi on this occasion:
- Ms. Gyaneshwari Devi (Care for cancer patients – Jabalpur)
- Ms. Prachi Yadav (India’s first canoeist and Arjuna Awardee)
- Mrs. Aarti Patel (Sarpanch – village Tirla, district Dhar)
- Ms. Meenakshi Thakre (Self-help group – Maheshwari Saree industry)
PM Modi awarded the Ahilyabai Holkar National Award to tribal artist Dr. Jayamati Kashyap from Chhattisgarh. He released a commemorative stamp and a ₹300 coin in her honor.
Infrastructure and Connectivity Boost
He inaugurated Datiya and Satna airports and launched the Indore Metro. A virtual fund transfer of ₹483 crores for the construction of 1,271 new Atal Gram Seva Sadan (panchayat buildings) was also done. These initiatives aim to accelerate development and generate new employment opportunities in Madhya Pradesh.
Indore, India’s cleanest city, now boasts of a metro identity. Rail line expansion across the Malwa region and enhanced air connectivity to temples like Maa Pitambara and Maa Sharda in Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand were also highlighted.
Concluding, PM Modi said that Ahilyabai Holkar’s governance combined development with cultural preservation, and modern India is progressing with the same spirit. He also honored the contributions of other Indian women leaders like Rani Kamalapati, Rani Durgavati, Rani Avantibai, and Rani Chennamma.