Udaipur, March 8, 2025 - International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated on March 8 every year to honour the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. The day highlights issues like gender equality, women’s rights, and empowerment, aiming to create a more inclusive society.

History of Women’s Day

The first Women's Day was held in New York City on February 28, 1909. It was organized by the Socialist Party of America and suggested by activist Theresa Malkiel. Some people believe it was linked to a women's protest in 1857, but researchers say this is a myth.

In August 1910, an International Socialist Women's Conference was held in Copenhagen, Denmark. Inspired by American socialists, German activist Clara Zetkin and others proposed an annual Women’s Day to demand equal rights and women’s suffrage (voting rights). More than 100 delegates from 17 countries supported the idea, but no date was chosen.

The first International Women's Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria-Hungary, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. More than one million people participated. In Austria-Hungary, there were 300 demonstrations, and women marched in Vienna, carrying banners. Across Europe, women demanded voting rights, public office, and an end to job discrimination.

At first, International Women's Day did not have a fixed date. In America, it was celebrated on the last Sunday of February. Russia observed it in 1913, on the last Saturday of February, which was March 8 in the Gregorian calendar.

In 1914, Germany celebrated it on March 8 for the first time. On the same day, a march for women's voting rights was held in London, where activist Sylvia Pankhurst was arrested on her way to Trafalgar Square.

Since then, March 8 became the official date for International Women's Day, focusing on women’s rights and equality worldwide.

Significance of Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a reminder of the progress made toward gender equality while acknowledging the challenges that still exist. It serves as a global platform to raise awareness about women’s rights, promote leadership opportunities, and recognise the achievements of women in various fields. Each year, IWD is celebrated with a specific theme. The United Nations and various organisations organise events, discussions, and campaigns to address key issues affecting women worldwide.

Women’s Day as an Official Holiday

IWD is an official holiday in many countries, including Russia, China (for women only), Nepal, Uganda, and Ukraine. However, it is not an official holiday in India.

Colors of International Women’s Day

• Purple: Justice and dignity.

• Green: Hope.

• White: Sisterhood and solidarity.

India’s Initiatives for Women-Led Development

India has shifted its focus from women-centric development to women-led development, promoting education, financial inclusion, and leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited women to share their success stories on the NaMo App Open Forum, which will be showcased on March 8, 2025.

Government Programmes for Women’s Empowerment

Education & Skill Development

• Right to Education Act (2009): Ensures free and compulsory education.

• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Focuses on improving the girl child’s education.

• Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: Enhances school education.

• NEP 2020: Promotes a fair and inclusive education system.

• Women in STEM: 42.57% of STEM students are now women.

Health Achievements

• Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) dropped from 130 to 97 (2014-20).

• Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) reduced from 43 to 32 (2015-20).

• Life expectancy for women is 71.4 years and projected to reach 74.7 years (2031-36).

Economic Empowerment & Financial Inclusion

• Stand-Up India Scheme: 84% of loans given to women entrepreneurs.

• PM Jan Dhan Yojana: 55% of 30.46 crore accounts belong to women.

• Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Over 10 crore women are members.

• MUDRA Scheme: 69% of microloans are given to women.

Women in Leadership & Workforce

• Women can now join the NDA and combat roles in the Armed Forces.

• India has 15% female pilots, compared to 5% globally.

• 10% of SIDBI funds are reserved for women-led startups.

Digital & Technological Inclusion

• PMGDISHA: 60 million rural citizens trained in digital literacy.

• Common Service Centres: 67,000 women entrepreneurs managing digital hubs.

• SANKALP Hubs: Supporting women entrepreneurs in 742 districts.