In a compelling exploration of India’s journey towards equality and national prosperity, Bharat Lal, the distinguished Human Rights Advocate, stands as a guiding force. His visionary perspective and dedicated advocacy illuminate the path toward an “Equality Moonshot Vision” for India, transcending conventional boundaries and shaping a future where inclusivity and prosperity intertwine.

During the World Woman Davos Agenda, Bharat Lal received the prestigious Global Voice Award 2024 for his transformative leadership in driving reforms and establishing community-managed water programs, which has reshaped India’s water security and earned global acclaim, including prestigious awards from the United Nations. His proactive response to crises, such as establishing the Water and Sanitation Management Organization post-earthquake in Gujarat, underscores his ability to turn challenges into opportunities for sustainable development. Moreover, his role in national and international policy-making and his contributions to managing the COVID-19 pandemic showcase his versatility and resilience as a true champion of women and girls. Rupa Dash, CEO of the World Woman Foundation, and Dr. Mukesh Aghi, President and Chief Executive Officer of USISPF, presented the award to Mr. Bharat Lal.

“If we invest in women, if we invest in girls, instead of having a one-person, one-income family, we can have two incomes. I think it makes sense for all of us. This lowest hanging fruit is that we are investing in women and girls to enable environment, scaling, education, safety, security, and even above all basic facilities at home so that more and more women can join the workforce.” said Bharat Lal, Secretary General, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India”

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In a compelling Fireside Chat moderated by Lalita Taylor, Executive Producer for the BBC and co-chair of BBC Wistem, Bharat Lal, the Secretary General of the National Human Rights Commission of India, shared insights into his remarkable career and discussed key initiatives for empowering women in India. The conversation took place at the World Women’s Davos Agenda, hosted by the World Woman Foundation in partnership with the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).

Education as the Foundation:

Lalita Taylor commended Bharat Lal’s significant contributions to improving the lives of millions in India, particularly highlighting his efforts in ensuring clean tap water for 114 million households. 

Bharat Lal emphasized the pivotal role of education, stating, “Education for her children and a peaceful home are the two driving factors for Indian women.” He outlined the impact of India’s new education policy, emphasizing not only scientific and regional education but also instilling values crucial for a stable, progressive, and liberal society.Under the new education policy, the government encourages partnerships with educational institutions from India and abroad. The focus is on universal education, and Bharat Lal proudly stated that in the last 9-10 years, the number of educational institutions has doubled, with 43% of Eastern graduates being girls.

Empowering Women for Prosperity:

The discussion then shifted to the theme of rebuilding trust and prosperity at the World Economic Forum. Bharat Lal shared India’s economic journey, highlighting that India reached a $3 trillion economy by 2019. He emphasized the importance of investing in women to achieve the goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy in the next 25 years.

Bharat Lal noted the progress made, with the percentage of women in the workforce increasing from 18% in 2014 to over 24% today. He stressed the need to create enabling environments for women in the workforce, citing initiatives such as extended maternity leave, safety measures, and financial support through small loans for women-led enterprises.

Building Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth:

Lalita Taylor inquired about building infrastructure to engage women from rural areas, and Bharat Lal outlined various steps taken to create a supportive environment. He highlighted achievements like providing clean tap water to 140 million households, constructing 110 million toilets, and offering 95 million cooking gas connections.

Furthermore, Bharat Lal underscored the importance of financial inclusion, stating that 460 million small loans have been sanctioned, with 63% going to women. He emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for women to start their own enterprises.

If we invest in women, if we invest in girls, instead of having a one-person, one-income family, we can have two incomes. I think it makes sense for all of us. This lowest hanging fruit is that we are investing in women and girls to enable environment, scaling, education, safety, security, and even above all basic facilities at home so that more and more women can join the workforce.” said Bharat Lal, Secretary General, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India

India Leapfrogging for a $5 Trillion Economy:

Bharat Lal introduced the concept of leapfrogging, a strategy to accelerate progress. He stressed the need to double women’s participation in the workforce from 24% to 50% in the next five years to achieve India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy in three years. This, he believes, is crucial for India’s development and prosperity.

Discussing India’s role in the digital revolution, Lal emphasized the absence of discrimination and the government’s commitment to providing equal opportunities. He highlighted India’s digital infrastructure as among the best globally, with efforts to include women and girls in this transformative journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Education as a Foundation: India’s new education policy focuses on scientific and regional education, instilling values for a stable and liberal society.
• Empowering Women for Prosperity: Investments in women can contribute significantly to India’s goal of becoming a $30 trillion economy in the next 25 years.
• Building Inclusive Infrastructure: Initiatives such as clean tap water, toilets, and cooking gas connections aim to create enabling environments, particularly for women in rural areas.
• Leapfrogging for Growth: Doubling women’s participation in the workforce is a crucial step for India’s goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy in three years.
• Digital Revolution and Inclusion: India is committed to digital infrastructure, ensuring women’s participation in the country’s digital transformation.

Lal concluded by urging a broader perspective on women’s issues, emphasizing that women’s empowerment is a collective responsibility. He encouraged greater male involvement and emphasized the importance of women occupying their rightful positions worldwide.

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