Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commemorated the 300th birth anniversary of Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Holkar at the Lokmata Devi Ahilyabai Mahila Sashaktikaran Mahasammelan in Bhopal. Speaking on the occasion, the PM paid tribute to her enduring legacy in governance, social reform, and cultural preservation, while emphasizing the crucial role of women in India’s development.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated key infrastructure projects, including the launch of passenger services on the Indore Metro’s Super Priority Corridor and the new airports at Datia and Satna. These initiatives aim to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and create employment opportunities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive progress inspired by the vision of women’s empowerment and India’s rich heritage.
Honouring Ahilyabai Holkar’s Legacy
PM Modi highlighted Devi Ahilyabai’s exceptional leadership, emphasizing her commitment to public service, cultural preservation, and inclusive governance. He highlighted her devotion, exemplified by carrying a Shiva Lingam and restoring important temples, including Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi. The Prime Minister praised her pioneering social reforms such as raising the minimum marriage age for girls, securing women’s property rights, and supporting widow remarriage.
Inauguration of Key Development Projects
The Prime Minister inaugurated several developmental projects including the launch of passenger services on the Indore Metro’s Super Priority Corridor (Yellow Line) and the inauguration of Datia and Satna airports. He emphasized that these developments would bolster infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh, catalyze economic progress, and generate employment opportunities. The PM also noted that these initiatives aim to improve regional connectivity and bring citizens closer to major religious and cultural destinations.
Women’s Empowerment and Economic Inclusion
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, PM Modi said that over four crore houses have been built with many registered in women’s names. He highlighted expanded access to essential amenities and healthcare benefits through schemes like Ayushman Bharat.
The Prime Minister underlined initiatives promoting financial independence, including Mudra Yojana loans—with more than 75% beneficiaries being women—and the active involvement of 10 crore women in self-help groups.
Women in Science, Defence, and Governance
The Prime Minister celebrated the increasing participation of women in STEM fields, startups, and space missions, citing over 100 women contributors to Chandrayaan-3. He highlighted historic milestones such as the first women NDA cadets and their expanding roles in the armed forces, including frontline service and leadership positions. The PM also praised women’s critical role in national security operations like Operation Sindoor.
Drawing parallels between Ahilyabai’s era and today, the Prime Minister emphasized India’s progress while preserving cultural roots. He highlighted infrastructure projects like Indore’s metro, railway expansions, and improved air connectivity, which also facilitate access to prominent pilgrimage sites.
A Call to Strengthen Sashakt Bharat
PM Modi invoked the legacy of great women leaders and urged the nation to draw inspiration from their courage and vision. He called for collective efforts to build a stronger, inclusive India—Sashakt Bharat.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi released a commemorative ₹300 coin and postage stamp honoring Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar and presented the National Devi Ahilyabai Award to a woman artist.
Additionally, the Prime Minister approved ₹480 crore for 1,271 Atal Gram Sushasan Bhawans to strengthen governance infrastructure in gram panchayats.
The event was attended by the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel, and the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Mohan Yadav, among other dignitaries.