Mumbai: The 2024 edition of News18 SheShakti Summit celebrated the achievements of women leaders who broke barriers, pursued excellence, and elevated India's stature globally. Held in New Delhi, the summit featured visionary women leaders, policymakers, and changemakers, including Jagdeep Dhankhar, VP of India, Justice D Y Chandrachud, Chief Justice of India, and Justice Indu Malhotra, Retired Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
Among the distinguished speakers were Kirron Kher (Actor & Former MP), Bhumi Pednekar (Actor), Padma Bhushan Usha Uthup (Singer), Nigar Shaji (Project Director for ISRO’s Aditya mission), and Lakshmi M Puri (Former UN Assistant Secretary-General & Ambassador of India), who shared their inspiring stories alongside other influential women leaders.
In a special address, President of India, Droupadi Murmu emphasised the importance of women’s empowerment, safety, and struggles. She said, “Women are, in fact, the true manifestation of power. The real strength of our nation lies in the empowerment of women. Our women have always demonstrated resilience, strength, and courage, moving forward despite all obstacles.”
Chief Justice of India, Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, addressed the audience by highlighting issues facing women today and the broader societal need for equal opportunities and dignity. He remarked, "But stringent laws alone do not make for a just society. Above all we need to change our mindset,”
VP of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, delivered a poignant speech, saying, “There must be evolution of mechanism, which includes for women…. Some people have the audacity to call women weaker sex. They are terribly wrong. What happened over the ages has to change. Democracy is made for those who are vulnerable, challenged and those who need handholding. You need to access opportunities and have full control over your life.”
The event concluded with an enthralling performance by Padma Bhushan Usha Uthup.
Network18 (Broadcast) CEO & Managing Director A+E Networks ITV18, Avinash Kaul said, “News18 SheShakti 2024 is our tribute to women who have turned their dreams into reality through passion, grit, and resilience. With this year’s edition, we raised the bar by bringing leaders who are shaping India’s global narrative, highlighting the critical role of women’s equal representation in nation building. We put a spotlight on their extraordinary contributions across fields like science, policy, defence, education, business, arts and more to create relevant conversations that inspire the younger generation.”
Network18, CEO digital & president, corporate strategy, Puneet Singhvi added, “By featuring extraordinary women leaders from several sectors, we’ve not only celebrated their achievements but also demonstrated how diverse perspectives fuel innovation and progress. Our goal is to inspire action and create pathways for more women to drive change and lead with vision.”
News18 SheShakti 2024 paid tribute to women's leadership, celebrating their contributions across science, policy, defence, education, and more, while underscoring the importance of gender diversity in building a stronger, more resilient India.
