"Women are the backbone of our society and their contribution towards nation building is immeasurable," these sentiments were expressed by MP Patiala Preneet Kaur today, during a Women's Day function held at her residence.On the occasion of International Women's Day today, the Patiala MP celebrated Women of Patiala by honouring 33 women from different fieds of life by presenting them with a special letter of appreciation.She said that, "The contribution of these women towards society and nation building is exemplary and the work they did, especially during the Covid times needs to be recognised and appreciated. That's why, I wanted to personally express my gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to you all."On this occasion Preneet Kaur honoured 13 women doctors, 6 police officers, 4 Anganwadi workers, 2 teachers, 2 sanitation workers and 6 women members of SHGs.She said that, "Throughout history, women have played the central role in society which has ensured the stability, progress and long-term development of nations.
"Further talking about contribution of women Preneet Kaur said, "Though in terms of opportunities women are still not at par with men, their historic and current role in development and nation building is indisputable."She highlighted that the Punjab government has been continuously working to give equal opportunities to women first by giving 50% reservation to women in all Panchayati Raj elections and municipal bodies’ elections and then giving 33 per cent reservation for women under direct recruitment in Punjab Civil Services.She further said that, "Besides this Punjab Government has also given a special gift to ladies of Punjab on this Women's day, by announcing free travel for women in state buses. The government has also increased the allocation under the Aashirwad scheme from Rs 21,000 to Rs 51,000."Prominent among other present were OSD to CM Honey Sekhon, Deputy Principal Secretary to CM Rajesh Sharma, OSD to CM Rajkumar, PA to MP Preneet Kaur Balvinder Singh, Director Pungrain Rajnish Shori, Quiledar Sh. Kamaljeet Singh, CDPO Patiala Rural Supreet Kaur Bajwa, DEO Secondary Harvinder Kaur & District program manager PSRLM Reena Rani.