Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai is a symbol of the invaluable contribution of women power in nation-building: PM Shri Modi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi stated that Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai symbolizes the invaluable contribution of women power in nation-building. Paying heartfelt tribute to the transformative leader, he recalled her inspiring words: "Whatever we have received is a debt given by the people – and we must repay it." He emphasised that the government is working in alignment with these values, adopting "Citizen is Divine" as the core mantra of governance.

Marking the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, the Prime Minister described it as a moment of inspiration and an opportunity for every citizen to contribute to the collective efforts of nation-building. He reaffirmed her vision that "the purpose of governance is to serve the people and improve their lives", adding that the government remains committed to carrying her ideals forward.

Shri Modi underlined that women-led development has become the central pillar of the government’s vision. Mothers, sisters, and daughters are at the heart of every major government scheme. Over 40 million homes have been built for the poor, with the majority registered in the names of women — empowering them to become homeowners for the first time. To ease daily life and promote education for girls, the government has ensured access to electricity, piped drinking water, and cooking gas through the Ujjwala Yojana. He stated that these initiatives are a humble effort to honor and uphold the dignity of women.

Prime Minister Shri Modi was addressing the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan at Jamboree Ground in Bhopal.

Earlier, he visited an exhibition focused on the life and legacy of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai. The exhibition showcased her contributions to good governance, women’s self-reliance, and the restoration and development of religious sites. Books and research papers on her life were also displayed. The Prime Minister also interacted with women involved in handicrafts, handlooms, and drone operations under the Drone Didi initiative. He reviewed various ongoing programs in Madhya Pradesh focused on women’s empowerment, including rural housing, rural tourism, agriculture, and women's participation in local self-governance.

Additionally, he took a detailed look at the state’s infrastructure development initiatives, innovations in religious and cultural tourism, and other progressive projects driving Madhya Pradesh’s growth.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid floral tribute at the statue of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav were present on the occasion. Governor Shri Patel greeted the Prime Minister by presenting him with a zari-zardozi embroidered portrait of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav welcomed the Prime Minister with a traditional turban and a Pushpak Viman crafted from Bhareva art of Betul district.

Four exemplary women from Madhya Pradesh, representing women empowerment and self-reliance Ms. Gyaneshwari Devi from Jabalpur, dedicated to caring for cancer patients, Ms. Prachi Yadav, India's first female canoeist and Arjuna Awardee, Smt. Aarti Patel, Sarpanch of village Tirla in Dhar district, known for grassroots sanitation and development work, and Ms. Meenakshi Thakle of the Nageshwari Self-Help Group in Maheshwar, involved in Maheshwari saree production also welcomed the Prime Minister

The Prime Minister presented the Devi Ahilyabai National Award to Dr. Jayamati Kashyap, a tribal artist from Chhattisgarh. He also released a commemorative postal stamp and a ₹300 coin dedicated to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar.

Additionally, Shri Modi inaugurated the Datia and Satna airports and launched the Indore Metro. He virtually transferred the first installment of ₹483 crore for constructing 1,271 new Atal Gram Seva Sadans (Panchayat Bhavans) across the state.

He emphasised that the launch of the Indore Metro and air connectivity in Datia and Satna will improve public facilities, accelerate development, and generate new employment opportunities. Indore, the cleanest city in India, now enters the metro era. The Central Government has also approved the expansion of railway lines in the Malwa region. Improved air connectivity will also make it easier to visit the revered shrines of Maa Pitambara in Datia and Maa Sharda Devi in Satna, boosting connectivity in Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand regions.

The Prime Minister reflected on how India must draw inspiration from Devi Ahilyabai’s tireless efforts and resilience. He proudly recalled historic women leaders such as Rani Kamlapati, Rani Durgavati, Rani Avantibai, and Rani Chennamma, and stressed the importance of strengthening the foundation of India through such legacies.

Shri Modi highlighted Devi Ahilyabai’s unique governance model that balanced development with the preservation of heritage. Even during an era of foreign domination 250–300 years ago, she carried her Shivalinga, led her kingdom through difficult times, and championed temple reconstruction and heritage conservation—like the restoration of Kashi Vishwanath. He noted the privilege of having a statue of Devi Ahilyabai in Kashi, where she once served.

The Prime Minister praised her inclusive development approach that prioritized the poor and marginalized. She promoted industry, agriculture, and water conservation—principles that align with the modern-day catch the Rain initiative. She introduced crop diversification and inspired cotton farming alongside wheat and paddy. She also invited weaver families from Junagadh (Gujarat) to Maheshwar, thus laying the foundation of the now-famous Maheshwari saree industry.

She was a visionary reformer who took strong steps against child marriage and promoted women’s participation in governance and defense. She even formed women’s village security groups during her reign. Shri Modi noted that Western critics often attempt to undermine India using women’s issues, but the legacy of Ahilyabai proves that Indian civilization has long upheld women’s leadership and empowerment.

Prime Minister Modi spoke at length about the transformative role of women in today's India. He said, women are excelling as doctors, engineers, and scientists, Bank Sakhis are strengthening rural banking systems, and women are operating drones in agriculture under the Drone Didi scheme. Health access has vastly improved through Ayushman Bharat, offering free treatment up to ₹5 lakh.

Over the last 11 years, the central and state governments have taken major steps to ensure women’s economic empowerment 30 crore Jan Dhan accounts have been opened for women, The MUDRA Yojana has greatly benefited women entrepreneurs, 10 crore women are now part of Self-Help Groups and earning incomes, The government has pledged to create 3 crore Lakhpati Didis, and already 1.5 crore women have become lakhpatis through the NaMo Drone Scheme. The number of girls studying science and math is increasing, with over 100 women scientists contributing to the Chandrayaan-3 mission, women now lead 45% of India’s startups. India has, for the first time, full-time women as Defence and Finance Ministers. There are 75 women MPs in the current Parliament, and women’s participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions is growing. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam has enabled reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.

Shri Modi paid his respects to Maa Bharati and Matrishakti, expressing his gratitude for the presence of so many mothers and sisters at the grand conference. He emphasized how Ahilyabai’s life teaches that with strong willpower, one can overcome any adversity.

Speaking on national security, he declared that Operation Sindoor—a response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam—was a tribute to Indian women’s valor. The Prime Minister stated that the terrorists did not just spill blood but also attacked India’s culture and targeted its women. However, India’s Nari Shakti rose to the occasion and gave a powerful response.

The BSF, especially its women personnel, played a key role in the operation, destroying enemy posts and showcasing extraordinary courage. India is now globally recognized for the bravery of its daughters in national defense. The government has opened Sainik Schools for girls and doubled their participation in NCC to 50%. Recently, the first batch of women cadets graduated from NDA. Women are now flying fighter jets, commanding warships, and even circumnavigating the globe in wind-powered boats. They are also providing a security shield in anti-Naxal operations.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi concluded by saying that India is a land of culture and valor, and the sindoor—symbolizing both devotion and dignity—now also represents the country’s courage. He pledged that the legacy and blessings of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar would continue to guide the nation toward inclusive, empowered, and glorious progress.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, in his welcome address, said that it is a moment of great pride that the leader of the world’s largest democracy, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has arrived on the sacred land of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. “Today is a truly unique and historic day for us,” he stated.

Recalling the legacy of Lokmata Maharani Ahilyabai, Dr. Yadav said that she was born 300 years ago and led a model administration while fulfilling her roles as an ideal daughter-in-law and wife. Devi Ahilya set a clear distinction between personal and state resources, and her model of good governance continues to inspire today's administrative systems.

Referring to the legacy of women leaders from Madhya Pradesh over the past 500 years, the Chief Minister said that Gondwana's Queen Durgawati defeated Akbar three times. Similarly, Rani Avantibai never compromised on her self-respect before the Mughals. Rajmata Scindia of Gwalior also played a crucial role in strengthening Indian democracy. Prime Minister Shri Modi enhanced the state’s prestige by appointing Sumitra Tai (Smt. Sumitra Mahajan) of Indore as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Today, the President of India is also a woman. On the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai, celebrations are being organized across the country.

Dr. Yadav further stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the Indian Armed Forces have decisively responded to terrorist regimes and terrorists. "The entire nation salutes you," he said. “Those who dared to snatch the vermilion from our sisters’ foreheads have been taught a stern lesson.”

He also highlighted India's global economic progress, stating that the country has surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy. The Madhya Pradesh government is working in complete alignment with the Central Government for the welfare of every section of society — including the poor, farmers, youth, and women. He expressed confidence that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Modi, India would reach the pinnacle of global influence.

The event was graced by Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Jagdish Deora and Shri Rajendra Shukla, Khajuraho MP Shri V.D. Sharma, Minister of Panchayat and Rural Development Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Shri Chaitanya Kumar Kashyap, Minister of Public Health Engineering Smt. Sampatiya Uikey, Minister of Women and Child Development Smt. Nirmala Bhuria, Minister of State for Backward Classes and Minority Welfare Smt. Krishna Gaur, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Religious Trusts Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi, Minister of State for Urban Development and Housing Smt. Pratima Bagri, and Minister of State for Panchayat and Rural Development Smt. Radha Singh. Bhopal MP Shri Alok Sharma and Bhopal Mayor Smt. Malti Rai were also present.

The event was joined virtually by Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Tokhan Sahu from Indore, Madhya Pradesh Minister for Urban Development, Housing and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Kailash Vijayvargiya, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Shri Ram Mohan Naidu and Madhya Pradesh Agriculture Minister Shri Endal Singh Kanshana from Datia, and Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation Shri Murlidhar Mohol and State Minister for Cottage and Village Industries Shri Dilip Jaiswal from Satna.