Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 23: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) J&K successfully convened the second edition of ‘SheLeads – Jammu’ today, under the theme “Empowering Women, Transforming Communities.”
The event brought together a distinguished gathering of women leaders from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), medicine, arts, and business to foster dialogue on advancing women’s leadership and its catalytic role in societal progress.
Dr M A Alim, Chairman of CII J&K UT Council and CMD of Package Design Industries, emphasized CII’s commitment to gender diversity and inclusion. “CII J&K’s SheLeads initiative is not just a platform for discussion but a catalyst for actionable change, designed to inspire, equip, and propel women leaders across Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.
Anu Behl, Special Secretary, Revenue Department, Govt of J&K, in her special address, highlighted the critical link between administrative inclusivity and community development. She remarked, “True empowerment is when a woman’s voice is not just heard but is integral to policy-making.”
Sarah Rizvi, DIG, Udhampur/Doda Range, shared insights from her experience in law enforcement, addressing the fundamental principle of gender equality. She argued that opportunities should be granted based on merit, not gender, stating, “We must break free from archaic stereotypes that limit potential and hinder societal progress. A truly equitable environment is only possible when everyone is evaluated on their skills and contributions rather than gendered expectations,” she said.
The chief guest for the event, Mandeep Kaur, Commissioner Secretary, JKHUDD, Govt of J&K, lauded CII for its initiative and put forth a forward-looking action point. “Women should get more involved in the activities of think tanks and forums like CII. I strongly recommend that CII consider starting a dedicated women’s chapter to amplify this engagement. It is crucial that their ideas and perspectives directly reach the decision-makers to shape a more inclusive policy framework,” she said.
The highlight of the event was a “Fireside Chat” on the theme ‘Women as Leaders – Paving the Way for Progress,’ moderated by Sofiya Rana, a renowned academician. The panel, featuring Mandeep Kaur, Sarah Rizvi, Anu Behl, along with Dr Jayasree Singh, CMO SG/COMDT Med and Swati Sharma, a renowned artist, delved into critical issues.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
