UNFPA Chief Lauds India’s Progress in Poverty Reduction, Electrification, and Women’s Empowerment
"Natalia Kanem Highlights India's Advances in Clean Water, Sanitation, and Women's Leadership During Her Visit"
Source: News & Image: livehindustan
India has made significant progress in reducing poverty, expanding electrification, and improving access to clean water and sanitation. This information was shared by UNFPA Executive Director Natalia Kanem during her three-day visit to India. Kanem remarked, “Looking back, it’s clear that there has been substantial progress in reducing poverty. The advancements in electrification and the commitment to clean water and sanitation for all are remarkable. The UN is proud to have been a key partner in these achievements.”
Kanem, who has been visiting India for the past 30 years, highlighted the positive changes in the country. In an interview with ANI, she said, “The pace of progress in India is encouraging. It’s inspiring to see India emerge as a leading example of positive change. When India advances, entire communities, including rural areas, see widespread transformation.”
As UNFPA celebrates 50 years of partnership with India, Kanem praised the efforts of the Indian government, communities, and other partners. She added, “India’s ambition to ensure inclusive growth for all is truly admirable. We take pride in having played a significant role in reducing maternal mortality, helping India make strides in its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). No woman should die while giving life, and India is making that a reality.”
She also noted that child marriage rates in India have halved over the past 50 years, stating, “This cultural shift, where girls are being educated, signals a brighter future where women are empowered, families are thriving, and economic prosperity is growing.”
Discussing India’s global leadership, Kanem said, “India is stepping up in terms of partnerships with developing countries, contributing to sustainable development both regionally and globally. India is not just an economic powerhouse, but it is also focusing on SDGs, especially in areas crucial for women and girls, which align with UNFPA’s core objectives.”
Kanem also highlighted India’s digital revolution as a major achievement, transforming lives at the grassroots level. She said, “India’s innovation in digital services has made life easier for women in remote areas. With access to mobile phones, many women now have direct access to government services and UNFPA resources.”
Speaking about the purpose of her visit, Kanem explained, “I’m here to celebrate with our dedicated team how we are helping India achieve its goal of ‘leaving no one behind.’ Our efforts in Rajasthan, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, and other regions are focused on positive masculinity, data-driven development, and empowering youth to actively contribute to society.”
She also expressed joy in witnessing women-led development in India and said, “It is inspiring to see the Indian government emphasizing women-led development across regions. UNFPA and the UN are working to ensure that women and girls remain at the center of development and that those left behind receive their human dignity rights.”
Finally, Kanem shared her personal experiences in India. She said, “As a physician, I had the privilege of experiencing Ayurveda in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. I also enjoyed India’s vibrant culture, from fashion to food, viewing it through the lens of women and girls. It brings me great joy to return to India and reaffirm our commitment to supporting its progress.”
