India’s Participation in the 69th Session of UNCSW

The Government of India, led by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, actively participated in the 69th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW) held at the UN Headquarters in New York from March 10-21, 2025. The session focused on gender equality and women’s empowerment, with India reaffirming its commitment to holistic development, inclusive policies, and international cooperation for women’s rights.

Key Highlights

India’s Delegation & Leadership

• Led by Smt. Annpurna Devi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development (WCD).
• Delivered India’s National Statement at the Ministerial Forum.
• Emphasized the whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach for women’s empowerment.

Focus on Gender Equality & Women’s Development

• Addressed 12 critical areas of concern under the Beijing Platform for Action.
• Highlighted India’s flagship schemes improving women’s health, nutrition, education, and economic empowerment.
• Reaffirmed commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ministerial Round Table & Policy Advocacy

• Participated in discussions on National Mechanisms for Gender Equality.
• Stressed the need to recommit, resource, and accelerate gender-related policies.
• Advocated for greater outreach and implementation of women’s rights programs.

Bilateral Meetings with Global Leaders

• Strengthened gender cooperation through meetings with,
• Ms. Melrose Karminty (Sierra Leone)
• Mr. Sodyq S. Safoev (Uzbekistan)
• Dr. Vindhya Persaud (Guyana)
• Ms. Antonia Orellana Guarello (Chile)

UNCSW 69th Session Overview

• Largest global intergovernmental forum dedicated to gender equality.
• Functions under the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
• Engages UN member states, private sector, academia, civil society, and global organizations.

India’s Vision for Women’s Welfare

• “The welfare of women and children is at the core of our nation’s progress.”
• Aims to empower every woman and nurture every child in a safe environment.