In a significant event aimed at empowering women in the dairy industry, the National Commission for Women (NCW) held a special training and empowerment programme today at Banas Medical College in Moriyah, Gujarat. The programme saw the presence of key figures such as NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, Gujarat Assembly Speaker Shankarbhai Chaudhary, and Rajasthan’s Animal Husbandry Minister Joraram Kumpawat.
During the event, Vijaya Rahatkar emphasised the NCW’s commitment to empowering women. She stated that the commission has implemented various laws to secure women’s rights and has continuously organised training programmes to educate women. Rahatkar praised the women of Banaskantha, highlighting their role in the ‘White Revolution’ that has earned them respect in society. She expressed gratitude to Shankarbhai Chaudhary and Banas Dairy for their support.
The NCW is actively working to provide training for women in the dairy sector. Rahatkar noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has affirmed the capability of women in India. He stated that women are increasingly taking on decision-making roles and managing finances, which is a matter of pride. Banas Dairy has shown remarkable progress over the last decade and serves as a role model, not just for India, but for many countries around the world.
Shankarbhai Chaudhary reiterated the importance of women in the dairy industry, stating that both Gujarat and Rajasthan are advancing in this sector. The hard work of women dairy farmers has contributed to the dairy revolution. He mentioned that empowering women leads to family progress and that social and economic transformation can only occur through women’s empowerment.
Chaudhary acknowledged the NCW as an institution of the Indian Constitution, which is making significant efforts towards women’s rights and legislation. He highlighted the increasing education levels among women in Banaskantha, crediting their efforts for the rise in female students joining government services. He encouraged families to inspire their women to develop skills with confidence.
Joraram Kumpawat, the Animal Husbandry Minister of Rajasthan, shared that the Rajasthan government has adopted the management practices of Banas Dairy. He noted that Banas Dairy has become a source of livelihood for many in Rajasthan and Banaskantha. Kumpawat commended the hard work of women in advancing their families.
Shruti Bhardwaj, Managing Director of the Rajasthan Cooperative Dairy Federation (RCDF), reported that Banas Dairy has achieved fivefold growth in the last decade and has expanded beyond milk production into various sectors. The NCW has initiated several efforts to empower women, including the launch of the White Revolution 2.2 by Cooperation Minister Amit Shah. Initiatives like ‘Waste to Wealth’ and bio-fertiliser plants aim to increase women’s income. Additionally, women are provided with accident insurance worth five lakhs.
The programme also hosted 50 women dairy farmers from Rajasthan, who interacted with their counterparts in Banaskantha. They will receive training over the next three days while learning about the impact of the dairy industry. The women also watched a documentary film on Banas Dairy and shared their feedback.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the vital role women play in the dairy sector and aims to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive. Events like these are crucial for fostering gender equality and enhancing the livelihoods of women in rural areas, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of the communities they serve.
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