The National Commission for Women (NCW) today marked its 34th Foundation Day at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, commemorating more than three decades of steadfast commitment towards safeguarding, promoting, and advancing the rights and dignity of women across India.

The programme was graced by Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, as the Chief Guest. Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, and Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Smt. Savitri Thakur, attended the event as Guests of Honour.

The Foundation Day celebrations were organised around the theme “Swasthya hi Sashaktikaran”, underscoring the centrality of women’s health as a cornerstone of empowerment, social equity, and national development.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda emphasised the pivotal role of women’s health in nation-building. He stated,

“A healthy woman gives birth to a healthy generation, and a healthy generation is the backbone of a strong, resilient, and prosperous nation.”
He further highlighted that investments in women’s health are not merely welfare initiatives, but strategic imperatives crucial for shaping India’s future.

In her address, Smt. Annpurna Devi highlighted the transformative impact of POSHAN Abhiyaan, noting that sustained and targeted interventions in nutrition and healthcare have significantly improved the well-being of women and children across the country.

The Chairperson, National Commission for Women, Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, reaffirmed the Commission’s vision of building an inclusive, safe, and equitable society for women, while continuing to strengthen policy advocacy, innovation, and collaborative partnerships.

As part of the celebrations, eminent women scientists from ISRO and DRDO, featured in the NCW Calendar 2026, were honoured for their outstanding contributions to nation-building. Dr. Tessy Thomas, renowned as the Missile Woman of India, was felicitated for her exemplary leadership and service in the field of defence science.

The Commission also honoured Shri V. Kamakoti, Padma Shri awardee and Director, IIT Madras, for his invaluable support in developing the AI module for “Tere Mere Sapne”, a flagship NCW initiative aimed at strengthening pre-marital communication and counselling.

The event reaffirmed NCW’s enduring commitment to advancing women’s empowerment through health, policy reform, innovation, and inclusive partnerships, as the Commission continues its mission to build a safer, healthier, and more equitable India for women.