Dibrugarh: The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, highlighted the vital role of women in nation-building, stating that "a mother’s lap is the world’s best institution of learning" while addressing the Central Foundation Day of the All-Assam Sonowal Kachari Women’s Association (AASKWA) in Dibrugarh on Sunday.

Speaking at the event, Sonowal commended the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, saying that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, women’s empowerment has paved the way for a prosperous and self-reliant society and nation. He emphasised that the Rigveda acknowledges the fundamental role women have played in shaping a progressive and holistic society. He added that mothers inspire their children to seek knowledge and guide them with courage, stressing that effort and perseverance are essential to realising one’s full potential.

Sonowal also underscored the importance of balancing technological progress with human values. He noted that while development is crucial, it remains incomplete without a strong foundation of humanity. Prioritising human values, he said, is key to overcoming challenges.

Addressing the Sonowal Kachari community, he urged its members to strive for excellence through skill, resilience, and dedication. He stated that there are no shortcuts to success, as every achievement comes through competition and challenges. Assam’s ethnic groups, he said, must advance through education, culture, and sports. He stressed that uplifting the Sonowal Kachari community requires action rather than just words.

Calling on women to take the lead in driving change, he encouraged the community to embrace hard work and perseverance. He cited the dedication of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who works nearly 18 hours a day, as an example to follow for the greater good of the nation.

He reiterated the government’s sustained efforts over the past decade to empower women, noting that millions of women in India have become self-reliant and are contributing significantly to national progress and economic growth. Looking ahead to 2047, he called on the women of the community to play a leading role in building a self-reliant and developed India. A strong and empowered force of women, he said, would accelerate national growth and prosperity.

The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Rashmirekha Sonowal, president of the All Assam Sonowal Kachari Women’s Association; former legislator Jyotsna Sonowal; Dipuranjan Makrari, president of the reception committee; Dr Shrutidhara Mahanta, professor at Dibrugarh University; Devananda Chelleng, president of the All Assam Sonowal Kachari Students' Association; and former chief executive member of the Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council, Dandi Sonowal, along with other distinguished guests and local residents.

BI Bureau