India took part in the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSoCD), held from 10 to 14 February 2025 in New York, USA. Smt. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for the Ministry of Women and Child Development, led the Indian delegation. The session facilitated discussions on global social development challenges, with a focus on inclusive policies and social well-being. Representatives from 49 countries, including ministers from 16 nations such as France, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Sweden, participated.
India’s Address at the Ministerial Forum
On 11 February, Smt. Savitri Thakur delivered India’s statement at the Ministerial Forum, addressing the priority theme: “Strengthening Solidarity and Social Cohesion.” India acknowledged the Commission’s role in advancing this agenda and emphasised the country’s progress since the 1995 Copenhagen Summit on Social Development. Key advancements include poverty reduction, improved healthcare, and the implementation of digital public infrastructure to drive sustainable development.
Highlighting the “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” approach, the minister outlined India’s commitment to inclusive growth. She underscored the success of initiatives such as JAM TRINITY (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile), which has enabled financial inclusion for women, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.
Women-Led Development and Social Protection
India’s focus on “women-led development” was a key aspect of the address. Programmes aimed at bridging the gender digital divide have expanded digital and financial literacy, empowering women entrepreneurs at all levels. Increasing female workforce participation remains a priority, supported by policies such as:
- 26 weeks of paid maternity leave
- Maternity benefits for 37.5 million mothers
- One Stop Centres and National Women’s Helpline
- Early childhood care, benefiting over 100 million children, mothers, and adolescent girls
The minister also highlighted India’s push for universal social protection, ensuring access to essential services for the most vulnerable. Nearly 100 million women linked with self-help groups (SHGs) have contributed to economic growth and grassroots leadership.
Commitment to Global Social Development
India reaffirmed its rights-based approach to universal health coverage, reproductive health, and access to clean energy, drinking water, sanitation, and housing. Over 40 million homes have been built for the poor, with women as sole or joint owners.
The country supported the resolution on the priority theme and remains committed to accelerating global progress on social development.
