(FE)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar with the release of a commemorative Rs 300 coin and a postal stamp at an event in Bhopal. Honouring the legacy of the legendary 18th-century Holkar ruler, PM Modi said the government’s vision of public service is inspired by Ahilyabai’s philosophy of governance—“to serve the people and improve their lives.”
Focus on women-led development
Highlighting Ahilyabai’s progressive views on women’s rights, PM Modi reiterated his government’s commitment to women-led development. “Millions of women have become homeowners for the first time. Out of the four crore houses built for the poor, most are registered in the names of women,” he said. The Prime Minister added that women are central to the country’s development agenda, playing leading roles in infrastructure and welfare schemes.
Hitting out at the Opposition, PM Modi said, “Some people today see secularism being at risk and believe that it goes against our religion when there is a discussion on the age of marriage for women. But Devi Ahilyabai, a true symbol of maternal strength, even back then thought deeply about the appropriate age for daughters’ marriage. Although she was married at a young age herself, she knew exactly what path was right for the development of daughters.”
‘If you fire a bullet, India will reply with a cannonball’
Modi praised the courage and leadership of India’s women soldiers during Operation Sindoor, calling it a powerful symbol of “Nari Shakti” (women power). He highlighted the critical role played by the Border Security Force (BSF), particularly its women personnel, in responding to cross-border threats with strength and precision.
“From Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, to the borders of Rajasthan, our daughters of the BSF stood at the frontlines,” Modi said. “They gave a befitting reply to enemy firing. From commanding control centres to destroying enemy posts, they showed extraordinary valour.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid growing recognition of women’s contributions in India’s armed forces. He used the occasion to underline India’s tough stance on national security, declaring, “Every one of our 140 crore citizens says—if you fire a bullet, it will be answered with a cannonball.”
Operation Sindoor is being hailed as a milestone in India’s border defence strategy and a clear message to adversaries. Modi’s speech emphasised that the strength of India lies not just in its military power but also in the rising role of women in securing the nation.
Who was Ahilyabai Holkar?
PM Modi invoked Ahilyabai Holkar’s forward-thinking stance on women’s issues, including her advocacy for increasing the marriage age of girls. “Even centuries ago, Ahilyabai had the vision to think beyond regressive norms. Today, if we raise these issues, some call it a threat to secularism,” he remarked.
Alongside the tribute, the Prime Minister virtually inaugurated the Indore Metro and the new airports at Datia and Satna. He also laid the foundation stone for several development initiatives. Referring to Ahilyabai’s advice to promote cotton and spice farming, Modi urged farmers to embrace crop diversification, moving beyond traditional staples like rice and sugarcane.
Ahilyabai Holkar is celebrated not only for rebuilding over 130 temples across India but also for her progressive reforms, including property rights for women, widow remarriage, and anti-dowry laws.
