In a landmark event that celebrates women-led development and cultural heritage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bhopal on May 31, 2025, to participate in the Mahila Sashaktikaran Maha Sammelan (Women Empowerment Mega Conference). The gathering, which saw participation from over 2 lakh women, was organized to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of the legendary queen and reformer Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The celebration was steeped in symbolism and patriotism, prominently themed around "Operation Sindoor" and the traditional sindoori saree, worn by all attendees.

A Grand Tribute to Ahilyabai Holkar

The central government, in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh state government and the Ministry of Culture, held this massive event at Jamboree Maidan in Bhopal. The occasion aimed not only to pay homage to the legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, known for her administrative reforms and temple restorations, but also to reinforce India's commitment to women empowerment and cultural preservation.

One of the highlights of the event was the release of a ₹300 commemorative coin and a special postal stamp, both dedicated to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The ₹300 coin, the first of its kind, contains 50% silver, weighs 35 grams, and features an embossed image of the queen.

Inauguration of Major Infrastructure Projects

During his address and virtual participation, PM Modi inaugurated multiple infrastructure projects, reinforcing his commitment to regional development:

• The 6-km-long Super Priority Corridor of the Indore Metro Yellow Line was flagged off. This metro line includes five key stations and is seen as a leap in urban transit for the city.

• Two newly developed airports in Datia (₹60 crore) and Satna (₹37 crore) were virtually inaugurated, with the inaugural flights flown by women pilots, adding another symbolic layer to the event’s women-centric theme.

• The first installment for 1,271 new Atal Gram Seva Sadan (Panchayat Bhawans) was released. These are being built at a total cost of ₹483 crore and will enhance governance infrastructure in rural regions.

• Water infrastructure projects worth ₹80 crore, including barrages and stop dams across Ujjain, Indore, Dewas, and Dhar districts, were also announced.

Operation Sindoor as the Emotional Backdrop

The event was dedicated to “Operation Sindoor”, India's recent military operation in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. The BJP infused the entire gathering with symbolic references to the operation. Key visual elements included:

• Over 1,000 cutouts of PM Modi and CM Mohan Yadav lining the road to the venue.

• Selfie points with slogans such as “Vow of Revenge for Sindoor” and “True Devotee Who Upholds Rajdharma” capturing the spirit of sacrifice and leadership.

• Women wore sindoori sarees, symbolizing both cultural tradition and patriotic resolve.

All-Women Led Security and Organization

Adding a powerful message to the day’s proceedings, 1,500 women security personnel, organized into 31 operational teams, were deployed for PM Modi’s safety and event management. Women ministers from Madhya Pradesh — Sampatiya Uikey, Krishna Baghri, Pratima Baghri, Radha Singh, and Nirmala Bhuria — also shared the stage with the Prime Minister, showcasing gender-inclusive governance.

In terms of logistics:

• Over 5,000 buses transported attendees to the event.

• Bhopal district alone mobilized 40,000 women.

• 200 women leaders handled 14 different organizational responsibilities ranging from hospitality to media coordination.

PM Modi’s Speech: Women Empowerment and National Unity

During his address, PM Modi spoke passionately about the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar, emphasizing her role in good governance and temple restoration across India. He reiterated his vision of women-led development and commended Madhya Pradesh’s state-level initiatives such as:

• 35% reservation for women in government jobs.

• Special industrial promotion schemes with grants for women entrepreneurs.

• ₹5,000 government support plus ₹8,000 employer contribution for women garment factory workers.

• Expansion of SHGs, now totaling 5 lakh groups involving 62 lakh women.

• Low-interest loans under the “Lakhpati Didi” scheme, with over 4 lakh women already benefiting.

• ₹1,250 monthly support to over 1 crore women as part of economic inclusion.

Recognizing Grassroots Women

PM Modi also interacted with tribal and folk artists, lauding their cultural contributions. A new National Devi Ahilyabai Award was announced for those promoting traditional arts and women empowerment at the grassroots level.

An exhibition on Ahilyabai Holkar’s governance model was visited by the PM, highlighting her contributions to infrastructure, justice, and social harmony. The exhibit included miniature replicas of temples restored by her and administrative tools used during her reign.

Unified Political Representation

Leaders across party lines attended, indicating national consensus on empowering women and standing united against terrorism. PM Modi’s remarks subtly connected the themes of women empowerment, national security, and cultural pride, urging the country to continue its march toward Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Conclusion

PM Modi’s Bhopal visit was not just another political event but a resonant celebration of India’s women, cultural icons, and global aspirations. By tying together themes of security (Operation Sindoor), tradition (Ahilyabai Holkar), and development (infrastructure and SHGs), the government sent out a strong message of unity, resilience, and inclusive growth.

The event also demonstrated that India's narrative on development is increasingly centered around women, not just as beneficiaries but as active agents of change, as symbolized by the women-only security force, leadership roles, and female pilots commanding inaugural flights.

As PM Modi departed Bhopal, the city echoed with chants of patriotism, celebration of culture, and the confident voices of empowered women ready to lead India into its next phase of transformation.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Ganga Bath Fittings, Victory Electric Vehicles International, Wagons Learning.

The Current active IPO are 3B Films

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.