Murmu’s warmth & affection leave Sakhis overwhelmed with emotion

 Media Coverage  |  06-09-2024

Brushing aside all protocols, President Droupadi Murmu in an affectionate manner mingled with the representatives of Lokmat Sakhi Manch, the outstanding women from Maharashtra and Goa who have made significant contributions in various fields, during a special meeting at Raj Bhavan here on Tuesday.

In this beautiful, unique and memorable moment, the Sakhis also reciprocated warmly to President Murmu’s gestures and shared their respective experiences when they were gently asked, “What do you do?” during the conversation full of warmth and affection. It was an extraordinary occasion in the lives of the Sakhis and the women  experienced a personal touch which was similar to the one while meeting a close friend after many years.

All of them were overwhelmed by the President’s warm demeanour as they had never imagined that they would be able to meet the President so closely and speak to her directly and in an amiable manner. In this breathtaking atmosphere, the Sakhis shared their personal anecdotes to the President in reply to her simple question.

On the occasion of the silver jubilee of Lokmat Sakhi Manch, 25 select women were chosen to meet the President although collector of Nandurbar, Mitali Sethi, and Sheetal Darda were unable to attend the special meeting.

 Among others were Ragasudha R. (deputy commissioner of police, ED, Crime Branch, Mumbai), who had exposed a child trafficking gang during her tenure in Beed, and later apprehended a similar gang in Mumbai. President Murmu was also deeply impressed by meeting such talented women of Maharashtra.

During the meeting, chairman of editorial board of Lokmat Media Group and former member of Rajya Sabha Dr Vijay Darda presented  a copy of  Lokmat newspaper to the President that featured her strongly worded remarks, “Enough is enough” after the Kolkata rape and murder case. She also had a glance at the issue of Lokmat.

I was touched by President’s genuine interest in my work and native village. The President was particularly impressed with my traditional nine-yard saree and a nose ring, noting that they represent the pride of Maharashtra. I practise organic and chemical-free farming and presented a bag of local seeds to the President which she gladly accepted.

— Padma Shri Rahibai Popere,

Kombhalne, Ahmednagar

Meeting President Droupadi Murmu was a significant moment in my life, filling me with emotion. I told her that I was a yoga teacher, and the President praised my work and blessed me to continue with my efforts. I was also impressed by the excellent arrangements made for the event.

— Ashwini Manju,

Sakhi Manch Coordinator (Sakhali, Goa)

After knowing that I run an educational institution, President specially appreciated me for selection of 48 of our school students in the National Defence Academy (NDA). The President enquired about the initiatives taken by the institution for girls’ education, and I explained the various programmes aimed at the development and progress of girl students. The President also expressed satisfaction with Lokmat Media’s selection for recognition in the educational work category.

— Vidya Pol,

president of Dr Cyrus Poonawalla International School (Peth Vadgaon, Kolhapur)

Receiving an award from the President is the most significant and unforgettable moment of my life. The President’s thoughts on women’s empowerment left a lasting impression on me and she has motivated me to continue working on the same path. I thank Lokmat Media Group for organising such a meaningful meeting for the women of Maharashtra.

— Ragasudha R,

  Deputy Commissioner of Police (Enforcement, Crime Branch (Mumbai)

On being informed that I am a disciple of Pandit Birju Maharaj and  run a dance school in Nashik, the President admired me and asked if I still perform on stage. Upon hearing that I did so, the President expressed her appreciation. I  was delighted that the President mentioned my dance form while discussing the various fields represented by the women at the event.

— Vidya Deshpande,

Classical dancer (Nashik)

I shared my work sphere on rehabilitation of HIV-infected children and women since 2001 as well as my efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The President appreciated my work, acknowledging the increasing empowerment of women in the country.

— Mangal Shah,

President, Palavi Institution (Pandharpur)

 I found the meeting inspiring. The President’s warm and motherly conversation resonated in myself, instilling confidence and encouragement. The President’s words of appreciation for the women’s work gave me a sense of pride and motivation to continue my efforts in empowering women.

— Mita Thakkar,

Gunvantiben Thakkar Women’s Empowerment Centre (Latur)

The personal conversation with the President is one that I will treasure. The President’s encouragement gave me the strength to continue fighting for the homeless. I was deeply moved by the President’s praise and the supportive pat on the back I received from her.

— Jyoti Rathod,

Shelter Coordinator for Urban Homeless (Badnera, Amravati)

I was deeply moved by the simplicity and wisdom of the President. I was awed by the grandeur of Raj Bhavan and  touched by the affectionate enquiry about my family by Chairman of editorial board of Lokmat Media Group and former member of Rajya Sabha Dr Vijay Darda. The President’s message that one’s work can inspire others to live was very inspiring.

—Surekha Gaikwad, Ulhasnagar, Thane

I provide various services to farmers, including soil testing, drone spraying, cold storage, and warehousing. I have also empowered many women by helping them secure employment. The President praised my work as inspiring for other women, leaving me overwhelmed by the recognition.

—Dhanshree Mandhani,  founder, Salaam Kisan (Jalna)

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to converse with the President and it is a moment of pride for me. I, along with other women, is grateful to Lokmat Media for selecting us for the visit and expressed our appreciation for the President’s interest in each one of us.

—Savita Pavara,

Tribal farmer (Chondwade Budruk, Nandurbar)

I  transitioned from a banker to a micro-banker over the past 31 years. I had the opportunity to share my work field with the President. She praised me for contributions to women’s empowerment, emphasising  the work being done by women like me would undoubtedly lead the country towards progress.

—Dr Medha Samant,

founder of Annapurna Parivar (Pune)

I found the informal meeting with the President to be inspiring for all Indian women. The President learned about the utility of small savings with self-help groups and appreciated the work being done to encourage village women to save and take risks. President’s recognition of my work with over 6,000 self-help groups was a source of pride for me.

— Papita Tai Moon,  Sarpanch (Tirzhada, Jalgaon)

I had a wonderful experience, as the President personally enquired about my name, village, and the nature of my work. I felt a deep sense of satisfaction on being able to convey the work of Seva Sankalp to the President, who took the time to interact with Lokmat ‘Sakhis’ present during the meeting.

— Aarti Palve, Seva Sankalp Pratishthan (Palskhed Sapkal, Buldhana)

I shared my field of work to create thalassemia, sickle cell, and anemia-free society, which the President found remarkable. I also presented a memorandum outlining the challenges faced by patients, hoping for increased support. I felt this was a significant moment in my life, providing me with renewed strength to continue my work.

— Dr. Sai Nemade,  Social Worker (Jalgaon)

I informed the President  that Lokmat Sakhi Manch has helped women build confidence. I found the President’s interaction to be memorable and inspiring, particularly her discussions about women stepping out of their homes to fight for their rights and the praise for the efforts made by women in this regard. — Ujjwala Padalwar,  Social Worker (Patnurkar Nagar, Nanded)

The day is unforgettable with the President greeting each woman, learning about their work, and encouraging them with meaningful thoughts and guidance. The President emphasised the importance of preserving organic seeds, creating seed banks, and empowering women through self-help groups. I felt supported by the President’s reassurance that strong measures are being taken to curb violence against women.

— Varsha Lanjewar,  Progressive farmer (Chandrapur)

I found it difficult to describe the significance of September 3. The President’s arrival and her demonstration of simplicity while engaging with everyone personally and it has left a deep impression on me. The President provided insightful guidance on empowering women, ensuring their economic strength, and focusing on their safety. — Jaya Ambhore,

President of Nirmik Multipurpose Organisation (Nagpur)

I have been involved in social work since 1998. I never imagined that I would get the chance to meet the President. Thanks to Lokmat Media Group. I am a woman from a remote area and had the opportunity to discuss the issues faced by women in tribal areas and the work my organisation is doing. The President’s appreciation of my work gave me renewed energy.

— Kumaribai Jamkatan, founder, Aamhi Aamchya

Arogyasathi organisation (Korchi, Gadchiroli)

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