Panel Discussion Highlights Women as Strategic Drivers of Development

Dr. Bhavani Rao, UNESCO Chair for Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality and Dean of the Amrita School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, moderated a thought-provoking panel discussion today at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri Campus, as part of Samarth Nari Samrudh Bharat.

The event was organized by Central Sanskrit University in collaboration with the School of Spiritual & Cultural Studies, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham.

Titled “Sudharma – Women in Society and Careers,” the panel was anchored in the theme “Nari to Narayani: From Silent Strength to Strategic Force.” The discussion explored the practical application of key philosophical dimensions—Vidya (Knowledge as Power), Shaktih (Atmanirbharata / Self-Reliance), Muktih (Liberating the Self), Chetana (the She Energy), Prakriti (Nature to Nurture), Sanskriti (Strengthening the Roots), Siddhi (Stories of Success), and Kriti (Plan of Action)—with a special focus on how women engage with and shape the world of work.

During her address, Dr. Rao spoke about the five goals of education envisioned by the Chancellor, Amma, and emphasized the importance of adopting a systems approach to women’s empowerment—one that integrates education, economic participation, leadership, and cultural grounding.

The panel featured diverse perspectives from academia, healthcare, entrepreneurship, finance, and public policy. The speakers included Dr. Manjula C. M., Assistant Professor, Department of Prasoothi Tantra & Stree Roga, Amrita School of Ayurveda; Smt. C. V. Sajani, Entrepreneur, Politician, and Founder of Bersaath Branding and Entertainments Co.; Prof. Nirmala Padmanabhan, Dean of Extension & Incubation, St. Teresa’s College, and Independent Director at Dhanlaxmi Bank; and Adv. G. Anjana Devi, Member of the Advisory Board, National Women’s Commission.

The session concluded with a shared understanding that empowered women are not merely participants in development processes, but strategic drivers who shape inclusive, resilient, and sustainable societies.