JAMMU: The Women’s Special Event of the National Women’s Leadership Conclave 2026, organised by the Shakti Udhgosh Foundation, was held at the Convention Centre Jammu, bringing together policymakers, defence officers, social activists, entrepreneurs and students to deliberate on the theme “Women Leading the New India.”
The event served as a platform for discussions on empowerment, leadership, modernisation and the evolving role of women in shaping contemporary India. An exhibition showcasing handcrafted products, including paintings, jewellery and locally produced honey, was also organised. Stalls presented by Rajni Handicraft Store and Highland Forest highlighted women entrepreneurship and indigenous craftsmanship.
The programme began with a melodious shloka recitation by students of EDA Kanya Ved Vidyalaya, setting an inspiring tone for the conclave.
Among the distinguished speakers were Devyani Rana, Shagun Parihar, Priya Deorari, social activist Preeti Choudhary, and spiritual leader Sadhvi Amrutha Trevedi.
In her inaugural address, moderator and coordinator Preeti Choudhary emphasised the need to bridge the gap between intent and thinking while promoting empowerment, leadership and modernisation. She highlighted the foundation’s vision of transforming women “from worrier to warrior,” encouraging them to recognise their inner strength and leadership potential.
Devyani Rana spoke about the influence of Western modernisation, stating that progress should not come at the cost of India’s traditional values. She stressed economic empowerment for women and explained the distinction between equality and equity, noting that women often carry a disproportionate burden both at home and in professional spaces.
Major Priya Deorari addressed the ongoing debate on equality, asserting that women are not seeking superiority but equal opportunities and fair representation in society.
Shagun Parihar highlighted the principle of Antyodaya, stressing the need to focus on the upliftment of the last person in society and underlining the role of empowered women in inclusive development.
Sadhvi Amrutha Trevedi spoke about social challenges affecting women, particularly condemning female foeticide as a serious social evil. She emphasised that true empowerment would be achieved only when such regressive practices are eradicated from society.
Summarising the first session, Seema Sehgal highlighted the importance of compatibility between men and women, stating that both can contribute effectively while maintaining their individuality.
Addressing the gathering, Shiv Kumar Sharma emphasised self-empowerment and highlighted various women safety programmes being implemented in schools and colleges.
IPS officer Aina Datta Sinha underscored the importance of women’s representation and identity, sharing her personal journey and the inspiration behind adding her mother’s name to her own.
Entrepreneur Pratishta Johar and NLP expert Monisa Singh discussed challenges faced by women in the 21st century, particularly mental fatigue and societal expectations, stressing that both homemakers and working women deserve equal respect and recognition.
In the concluding session, Ananya Sharma conducted a workshop on “Mind Clarity,” focusing on self-awareness, breathing techniques and mental resilience through practical activities and motivational insights.
The event concluded with a group photograph, marking the successful culmination of a day dedicated to dialogue, inspiration and collective commitment towards strengthening women’s leadership in building a progressive and inclusive India.
