Lucknow: The CSIR–Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow, organised a programme to mark International Women’s Day with the theme “Rights. Justice.
Action. For ALL Women and Girls – Ensuring Fair, Inclusive and Accessible Justice for All Women.”
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lamp lighting by the Chief Guest Prof. Manuka Khanna, Former Vice-Chancellor, Lucknow University, Guest of Honour Mrs. Pooja Garg, President Elec., FICCI FLO, and other invited dignitaries. Dignitaries were warmly welcomed and felicitated by Dr. Arvind Singh Negi.
The event featured a panel discussion on “Women Shaping Science, Society, and Governance towards Viksit Bharat: Challenges and Way Forward.”
The discussion focused on the evolving role of women in advancing national development and on the barriers that continue to affect their participation in key sectors.
The programme brought together diverse voices advocating for women’s and girls’ rights, justice, and meaningful action. Speakers highlighted the importance of empowering women as leaders, innovators, and decision-makers in science, social development, and governance. The dialogue emphasized that strengthening women’s participation is essential for achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat, while also outlining strategies to overcome challenges and create inclusive opportunities for future generations.
Dr. Prema G. Vasudev shared the historical significance and story behind the celebration of International Women’s Day, highlighting its importance in recognizing the achievements and struggles of women across the world.
During the programme, Chief Guest and Guest of Honour felicitated two CIMAP beneficiaries women entrepreneurs Dr. Pallavi Singh and Vineeta Verma. and Dr. Sanjay Kumar Yadav spoke about the impact of the Aroma Mission in promoting women entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
In his message, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR–CIMAP, Lucknow, emphasized the institute’s commitment to strengthening women’s participation in science, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He noted that initiatives such as the CSIR Aroma Mission are helping promote women-led enterprises and sustainable livelihoods through medicinal and aromatic plant cultivation, contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Sumya Pathak, who initiated the session by welcoming the distinguished panellists: Prof. Manuka Khanna (Former VC, Lucknow University), Dr. Pooja Garg (President-Elect, FICCI FLO), Dr. Vidhu Sahni (Scientist, CSIR-NBRI), Dr. Niti Kumar (Scientist-E, CSIR-CDRI), and Dr. Puja Khare (Scientist-F, CSIR-CIMAP). The panellists addressed various questions on how women can excel and lead across different fields. The session proved to be highly engaging, inspirational, and motivational, with the speakers sharing insightful experiences and life-changing stories from their professional journeys. Some key takeaways from the discussion included equal opportunities, ownership, leadership, taking risks, resilience, gender bias, and self-confidence. They also welcomed questions from the audience, including students who came from PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya Aliganj, Canossa School Faridi Nagar, Lucknow, and AIMS Foundation Lucknow (NGO).
The session was followed by prize distribution to the winners of competitions organized by AcSIR Science Club, CSIR-CIMAP.
On this occasion, women staff members, including administrative staff, scientists, technic staff and women post-doctoral fellows of the institute were also felicitated by dignitaries in recognition of their valuable contributions.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Manuka Khanna, Chief Guest, spoke about the vital role of women in shaping society, science, and governance, and encouraged women to pursue leadership roles with confidence and determination. However, she emphasised that true empowerment can only be achieved when equal opportunities, supportive work environments, and inclusive policies are ensured for women in all sectors.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Prema G. Vasudev, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, participants, and organising teams for making the event successful.
