Women in National Security: A Thought-Provoking Session by Smt. Padma Jaiswal, IAS On International Women’s Day Celebration

       On the International Women's Day celebration, the RRU Puducherry campus invited the Smt. Padma Jaiswal is the IAS Secretary to the Government of Puducherry. This session shed light on women's pivotal role in safeguarding national and international security while emphasizing the need for greater participation in critical decision-making processes. 

                  Smt. Padma Jaiswal’s address was informative and inspiring, covering a broad spectrum of themes related to women’s engagement in national security. She highlighted how women have increasingly taken up leadership roles in defense, intelligence, cybersecurity, law enforcement, and diplomacy. The lecture was enriched with multiple real-world examples of women who contributed significantly to these fields. She elaborated on the presence of women in the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and policymaking bodies, emphasizing how their strategic vision, resilience, and commitment contribute to national security. Drawing from historical and contemporary instances, she illustrated how women have played vital roles in conflict resolution, counterterrorism efforts, and peacekeeping missions at the global level.

The session concluded with a powerful message: national security is not just a domain for men but a shared responsibility. Women’s perspectives, skills, and contributions are indispensable for a nation’s safety and progress. Smt. Padma Jaiswal urged educational institutions, government bodies, and private organizations to foster an environment where more women can enter critical security roles.

The International Women’s Day celebration at RRU Puducherry was an eye-opener for students, faculty, and security professionals, reinforcing the need for a collective effort to strengthen women’s presence in national security. The event left an indelible mark on the audience, inspiring the next generation to embrace careers in security and diplomacy, thereby shaping a safer and more inclusive world for all.