132 women in Gujarat presented empowerment awards

Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel today presented awards to 132 women from different walks of life in recognition of their achievements and to encourage their works, and listed the initiatives taken by her government for empowerment of women.
Women Empowerment Awards were bestowed on 132 females from diverse fields at a function organised by Gandhinagar District Panchayat, an official statement said here.
The awards were given to mark the ongoing statewide Women's Empowerment Fortnight (August 1 to 15) being observed by the Gujarat Government.
She also presented 'Lifetime Achievement Awards' to 13 other women for outstanding contribution in their chosen fields, it said.

The awards were given to women from diverse fields like sports, environment protection, scientific research, social work, journalism, beauty parlour, trade, painting, food, co-operative society, scout and guide.
One Rasilaben Wadher was given the award for her brave rescue operation of lions in the remote forests in Gir Sanctuary, the statement said.

Speaking at the function, Patel listed the works done by her government for women empowerment.
"A shed has been allocated at the Sanand GIDC Estate to encourage women entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector on the lines of their empowerment in agriculture, dairy and self-help groups," she said.
Patel said the BJP government has created a separate department for Women and Child Welfare and allocated to it an annual budget of Rs 2,000 crore.