President of India Attends International Women’s Day 2026

The President of India participated in the national-level celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. The day is observed globally to recognize women’s achievements and to promote gender equality.

International Women’s Day:

Dimension	Key Details
Date of Observance	Observed globally on 8 March every year.
Aim	To celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and promote gender equality.
Origin	Emerged from early 20th century labour movements in North America and Europe advocating women’s rights and better working conditions.
First National Observance	The first National Woman’s Day was observed in the United States in 1909.
International Proposal	Clara Zetkin proposed an international women’s day during the 1910 International Socialist Women’s Conference.
First International Observance	Celebrated in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.
Historical Significance of 8 March	The date became associated with the 1917 Russian women’s strike demanding “bread and peace,” which eventually led to women gaining voting rights in Russia.
UN Recognition	The United Nations officially recognized International Women’s Day in 1977.
Traditional Colours	Purple symbolises justice and dignity, green symbolises hope and white symbolises purity and solidarity.
Global Observance	Observed worldwide and declared an official public holiday in several countries including Afghanistan, Russia and Uganda.
Global Gender Gap Concern	At current rates, full global gender parity is estimated to take around 132 years.
Global Theme 2026	“Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”
IWD Campaign Theme	“Give to Gain,” highlighting the benefits of empowering women through equal opportunities.
National Celebration in India	Organised by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Major Event	Shakti Walk (#SheLeadsBharat) organised along Kartavya Path in New Delhi showcasing women from diverse sectors.
Policy Development	Discussion during the 2026 Budget Session regarding possible amendment to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam to expedite implementation of women’s reservation.