
my uttarakhand news Bureau
DEHRADUN, 14 Mar: Governor of Uttarakhand, Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh, attended the “Women Entrepreneurs: Rising Stars” award ceremony organized by The Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs of India (COWE) at Lok Bhawan, on Saturday. On this occasion, he honored several women entrepreneurs who have made outstanding contributions in different fields.
Among the awardees were renowned boxer and Olympic medalist Mary Kom, storyteller Fouzia Dastango, industrialist Anju Ahuja, social entrepreneur Nidhi Mittal Bansal, noted artist and educator Rouble Nagi, social worker and environmental activist Shashi Raturi, and actress and film producer Arushi Nishank, along with several other distinguished women.

In his address, the Governor said that the true progress of any nation is possible when its development moves forward under the leadership of women. He stated that women today are not only the foundation of society and family but are also becoming powerful drivers of economic growth and social transformation. He appreciated the confidence, leadership, and positive energy of the women present at the event and said that Indian women are establishing their identity at the global level through their determination and talent.

Lt Gen Singh further emphasized that respecting women and equal opportunities is not only a social responsibility but also an essential requirement for nation-building. He added that challenges give new direction to life, and real success is achieved by overcoming them. The women entrepreneurs honored at the event are a source of inspiration in their respective fields. He also noted that they now carry the responsibility of guiding future generations through their experience and leadership.
Upholding the women of Uttarakhand, the Governor said that women in the mountainous regions demonstrate remarkable courage, hard work, and leadership even under difficult circumstances. He added that through self-help groups, agriculture, handicrafts, and local products, the women of the state have played a significant role in strengthening the state’s economy.

On this occasion, Olympic medalist boxer Mary Kom also addressed the gathering. She shared her journey of struggle and achievements, explaining that her path from a modest family in Manipur to the international stage was not easy. Despite limited resources and social challenges, she fulfilled her dreams through determination, discipline, and self-confidence.

She said that representing India on the global stage and raising the national flag high has always been a matter of pride for her. Encouraging the women and youth present, she urged them to see challenges in life as opportunities. She also called upon women to believe in their strength, set clear goals, and pursue them fearlessly with continuous effort.

The event was attended by First Lady Gurmeet Kaur, Vice-Chancellor Surekha Dangwal of Doon University, Vice-Chancellor Tripta Thakur of Uttarakhand Technical University, Vice-Chancellor Bhanu Duggal of Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Uttarakhand Medical Education University, National Treasurer of the COWE Meetu Puri, Uttar Pradesh Chapter President Riya Raheja, Secretary Shikha Ghai, Director of W Five Communication Rashi Rohatgi Kkhan along with women from various sectors and other attendees.
Pratibha Srivastava and her students performed music and kathak on the occasion.
