Women’s leadership will be essential to building a stronger, more inclusive and progressive India, Brijesh Singh, IPS, Principal Secretary (Information & Public Relations), Government of Maharashtra, said at the 11th CII IWN WomeNation Summit 2026 in Mumbai.

Brijesh Singh, IPS, Principal Secretary (Information & Public Relations), Government of Maharashtra, highlighted the growing role of women in shaping India’s future and stressed the need to create meaningful opportunities for women to lead, innovate and contribute to nation-building.

“Empowerment is the beginning. Enablement is what creates leaders,” said Mr Vir S. Advani, Chairman, CII Western Region and CMD, Blue Star Ltd. He called for stronger pathways within organisations for women to take up leadership roles, drive innovation and shape the future.

The summit brought together industry leaders, women professionals, entrepreneurs and policymakers to discuss building workplace and leadership ecosystems that enable women to participate, grow and take on leadership roles.