Interaction with Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Minister of Defence, Government of India on”Stories That Matter – Journey Of India’s First Full-Time Defence Minister” & Release of the Gender Parity Survey Report

FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) organised a very interesting session with Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Minister of Defence, Government of India The session was very aptly titled “Stories That Matter – Journey of India’s first full-time Defence Minister”.

As a part of its activities, FLO brings together women achievers for interactive sessions on breaking through challenges, beating the odds, walking the pathways of courage and playing the role of inspirational role model for women around the globe.

Nirmala Sitharaman is India’s first woman Defence Minister after Indira Gandhi, who handled the portfolio during her tenure as the prime minister over three decades ago.

In her keynote address, Smt. Sitharaman stressed on the need to make women empowerment steady. “For every frontier touched or broken by women that frontier should be sustained with more and more women.”

With Smt. Sitharaman taking charge of the crucial ministry, her role in bringing in fundamental defence reforms with an iron fist, is a break away from all stereotypes in the Indian political scenario, which has been always considered as a male bastion.
FLO President, Pinky Reddy said, “FLO is the most apt platform to connect, learn and grow. We recognise the success stories of women who breaks all stereotypes and provide a platform for the members to be inspired by them. This programme was an excellent opportunity to be motived by the inspiring journey of an economist, to a politician and then to being the Raksha Mantri of a great nation like India.”

She added, “An immensely passionate and fearless woman, with grit and determination and an icon of inspiration for each one of us– Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman is a real life hero and a winner in the journey of life. FLO salutes her indomitable spirit and unsurpassable courage.”