At the programme, Vice Chairman of RPSG, Shashwat Goenka, appreciated the contribution of women and said that true leadership lies not only in achieving success but also in creating new opportunities for others. He said that many women today are making their mark in such fields where previously the opportunities available to them were very limited. He described these women as the real force for change and said they have inspired many people to move forward through their work.

Shashwat Goenka also mentioned the women of his family. He lauded the contribution of his mother Preeti Goenka, wife Shivika Goenka and sister Awarna Jain, and said that besides family responsibilities, they also played an important role in promoting social and business enterprises. He also said that he wants his two daughters to join the ranks of these inspiring women in the future.

After receiving this honour, Nita Ambani said that leadership for her does not only mean moving forward, but also means giving the opportunity to others to move forward. Promoting feelings such as compassion, sensitivity, equality and respect in society is also an important part of leadership, he said. He said that Reliance Foundation has so far reached more than 10 crore people through its various social initiatives. He also emphasized that if girls and women get education, opportunities and the opportunity to become self-reliant, the progress of the country will be faster.

The chief guest of the programme, Governor of Maharashtra, Jishnu Dev Verma, said that the dream of a developed India cannot be achieved without equal participation of women. He said that comprehensive development is not possible without the advancement of half of the country’s population. He described women entrepreneurs, self-help groups and financial empowerment as an important foundation for economic progress in India.