More work needs to be done to empower women: President

Appreciating the extraordinary roles played by women in different spheres, President Pratibha Patil on Wednesday said more works needs be done to empower women to make them self sufficient.

"Women can play an important role in focusing on issues related to gender inequality, ways to eliminate poverty and on social practices that are disadvantageous to the development and empowerment of women and the girl child. Women's empowerment is an important field where more work, needs to be done," Patil said in her message to the International Women's Day, to be observed on Thursday.

Pointing out its importance, she said the day is to celebrate the spirit of ordinary women, who have played extraordinary roles in shaping their families, communities, society and countries.

"At the same time, it is a day to reflect on the progress made in achieving the goal of all-round development of women, and of implementing a pro-active agenda of change," the President said, while greeting them for their continuing role and relentless effort in shaping the destiny of country.