Delhi buzzed with anticipation on March 7 as the Rashtriya Sevika Samiti launched its national women’s conference ‘From Bharatiya Nari to Narayani’ at Vigyan Bhawan, just before International Women’s Day. Chief guest Dr. Preeti Goyal, a veteran educator from Delhi University, stole the spotlight with her candid views.
‘From age 10, I’ve been part of Sevika Samiti shakhas. After 30-plus years at DU, I opted for VRS but remain active,’ she shared, explaining her special invite.
On empowerment, Dr. Goyal was unequivocal: ‘The word is wrong—women, especially mothers, are already powerful. No need to ’empower’ them further. Society needs an overhaul.’ She pointed to government initiatives and male attitudes as key levers.
‘Changes are visible because girls outperform everywhere. Men’s thinking has somewhat improved, but equality lags. Women manage households plus careers flawlessly, bearing 60% of the load against men’s 40%,’ she quantified.
This conference isn’t just an event—it’s a mirror to India’s evolving gender dynamics. Dr. Goyal’s call for mindset reform sets the tone for meaningful discussions, reminding us that women’s strength is a given; societal equity is the goal.