Raman Bhalla Emphasizes Women's Role Amid Rising Inflation in India

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee Working President Raman Bhalla on Tuesday said that soaring prices of essential commodities are affecting women's kitchens the most, making it difficult for them to manage household budgets.

The former minister said that women constitute half of the country's population and possess the power to bring about significant social and national change.

''Rising inflation is having the biggest impact on women's kitchens. Women, who manage household budgets, are facing increasing difficulties in running their homes due to the rising prices of LPG cylinders, edible oil, pulses, vegetables, and other essential commodities,'' he said while addressing women and local residents during an outreach programme at Chattha Pind in the R S Pura border belt of Jammu.

He said women today are contributing in every sphere of life and playing a vital role in nation-building. ''Women cannot be confined to households alone as they have established their presence in politics, education, social service and the economic sector,'' he said.

Highlighting the impact of inflation, Bhalla said rising prices of LPG cylinders, edible oil, pulses, vegetables and other essential items have put an additional burden on women, who are primarily responsible for managing household expenses.

''Inflation directly affects household kitchens because women bear the responsibility of managing food and domestic expenditures for their families. The continuous rise in prices has increased both their concerns and responsibilities,'' he said.

The Congress leader said his party has consistently worked for the dignity, rights and empowerment of women.

Citing examples of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, former President Pratibha Patil and former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar, he said Congress had provided women opportunities to occupy the country's highest offices.

Bhalla said Congress governments promoted women's participation in governance by introducing reservations in Panchayats and local bodies and implementing various schemes related to education, healthcare and employment aimed at making women self-reliant.

Underscoring that meaningful change was possible if women came together and actively participated in social affairs, he urged them to remain aware of their rights and social issues, describing women's empowerment as crucial to the nation's future.

(With inputs from agencies.)