From policy to practice: Conference highlights gender-inclusive policy and leadership

NEW DELHI: The Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) Cell organised an international conference on women's empowerment across various domains.
In a two-day conference, distinguished speakers from academic, policy, entrepreneurial, and social sectors were brought to explore strategies for advancing gender equity and women-led development.
On Tuesday, the Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management (AJNIFM) in New Delhi hosted the International Conference on "Actions to Accelerate Women-Led Development."
The conference sought to ensure meaningful integration of women in development agendas at local and global levels. Dr Jaya Bhalla, Co-Convener, extended the welcome address, followed by BK Pandey, Convenor, who highlighted the importance of the women-led development model and coordinated policy initiatives for gender equity.

The opening session featured significant presentations highlighting comprehensive approaches to women's empowerment. AJNIFM director Praveen Kumar delivered the keynote address, introducing the GRB Cell and explaining AJNIFM's role in incorporating gender considerations into financial management training.
Archana Singh, CEO of Anandaya Foundation, discussed women-led development in relation to India's G20 presidency, while Jaya Goyal, chairperson of the Women Entrepreneur Cell (iamsmeofindia), addressed the state of women entrepreneurship in India. Bikash Narayan Mishra, senior advisor at the Indian Banking Association, stressed the importance of institutional support for women's advancement.
The conference included two technical sessions examining academic and practical aspects of women's development. The first session explored gender equality and economic empowerment, featuring discussions on tax policies for single mothers and women's role in major economies. The second session concentrated on women's entrepreneurship and health, presenting case studies on digital inclusion and healthcare access for rural women.
Prof. Satyen Lama, Co-Convener, concluded the day with acknowledgements to all participants.