Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Youth Affairs, and Sports, Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, arrived in Tamil Nadu for a series of programs in Coimbatore. He received a warm welcome at Coimbatore airport and later participated in an interactive session called ‘New India Debates’ held at PSG College of Arts and Science, where he delivered a keynote address.
In his address, Minister Thakur celebrated the passing of the women’s reservation bill, emphasizing the importance of women’s roles in social progress, politics, healthcare, education, sports, and science. He noted the impressive performance of sportspersons from various states at the recent Khelo India Games and highlighted the significant contributions of women scientists from Tamil Nadu to the Chandrayaan-3 mission.
Minister Thakur also discussed the government’s initiatives to empower women, including improved healthcare during childbirth, increased LPG gas connections, piped drinking water through the Jal Jeevan Yojana, and the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. He mentioned the expansion of AIIMS hospitals, the opening of 700 new medical colleges, and the presence of Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country.
Highlighting the importance of women’s economic empowerment, Minister Thakur mentioned the benefits provided under the Mudra Yojana, housing schemes registered in the names of women, and support for self-help groups. He also discussed plans to provide drone training for SHGs and the growing role of women in the defense sector.
Minister Thakur pointed out India’s progress in various fields, including a digital revolution through the Digital India program, reduced poverty rates, increased tax revenues, and a rising global economic ranking. He praised women’s contributions in entrepreneurship and various sectors, emphasizing their vital role in India’s progress.
During the session, Minister Thakur interacted with students, responded to their queries, and felicitated winners of the quiz competition organized by ‘New India Debates’ and winners of national and international sports competitions.