In a significant stride for rural women's development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a landmark institution in Gujarat's Dharampur on Saturday. The Shrimad Rajchandra Sarvamangal Centre of Excellence for Women (COEW) promises to be a transformative force for thousands.
A Vision for Holistic Empowerment
Envisioned by spiritual leader Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji, this first-of-its-kind integrated ecosystem is dedicated entirely to women's empowerment. The sprawling campus spans 11 acres with a massive built-up area of nearly 2 lakh square feet, making it one of India's largest such initiatives.
The centre is meticulously designed to support rural women at every stage of their personal and professional growth. It reflects a deep national commitment to women-led development, aiming to directly train and skill over 15,000 women every year. Its impact is set to multiply through a network of satellite centres and partnerships across rural India.
Transformative Impact for Tribal Communities
The location of the centre is strategic, poised to create a wave of change across a region home to approximately 9.6 lakh women. Notably, nearly 55% of this population belongs to tribal communities, who will be primary beneficiaries of the centre's programmes.
Addressing the gathering at the inauguration, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the initiative's unique model. He emphasised that its operation being entirely managed by rural women themselves sets a powerful precedent. "I have never seen anything like this; it is truly a novel concept. I bow in gratitude to Pujya Gurudevshri Rakeshji for envisioning it," Singh stated. He further connected the project to national goals, saying, "This initiative truly reflects the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat."
A Silent Yet Powerful Transformation
The philosophy behind the centre, as explained by Atmarpit Nemiji, Vice President of Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur, is one of quiet but profound change. The organisation believes in fostering empowerment through actionable support and education rather than mere rhetoric.
This Centre of Excellence represents more than just infrastructure; it is a beacon of hope and opportunity. By providing skills, training, and a supportive ecosystem, it aims to unlock the immense potential of rural women, enabling them to become architects of their own destiny and active contributors to a developed India.
