Introduction

Kisan Trust is a non-profit organization founded by Bharat Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India and a visionary leader dedicated to the welfare of farmers and marginalized communities. Inspired by his legacy, the Trust works to empower rural and under-served populations, with a special focus on farmers and women. Through innovative programs and partnerships, Kisan Trust addresses critical issues such as health, education, economic empowerment, and social justice, striving to create a more equitable and inclusive society.

Supporting Acid Attack Survivors

Unfortunately, in India, violence continues to be perpetrated against women by throwing acid on them. This happens despite existing laws restricting the sale of such acids. Survivors suffer physically, mentally, and emotionally as they face numerous challenges, including high medical costs and difficulty reintegrating into society. Kisan Trust has endeavored to support such survivors by providing them with financial assistance to aid their rehabilitation.

Programme Details

The IWD 2025 program will feature panel discussions and interactive sessions aimed at addressing critical issues affecting women today. The event will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, activists, and professionals to discuss two key themes:

Panel Discussion1: Women’s Health & Well-being

This session will address the pressing issues surrounding women’s health, including:

- The lack of awareness and education about women’s health from childhood.

- The challenges surrounding bodily agency and the low prioritization of women’s health.

- A special focus on menopausal health, breaking myths, and advocating for better healthcare solutions.

- The role of nutrition and fitness in ensuring holistic well-being.

Panellists

Deepika Anand - is an Operations Officer at the World Bank, specializing in health, nutrition, and food systems. With over 12 years of experience, she leads initiatives on maternal and child nutrition, health taxes, and obesity prevention in South Asia.

Dr. Shehla Jamal - Dr. Shehla Jamal a senior gynecologist at Sarvodaya Hospital, specializes in menstrual health, infertility, and post-menopausal care. She is the Founder & President of the Society of Menstrual Disorders and actively promotes women’s health awareness.

Ishi Khosla – As a clinical nutritionist, author, and entrepreneur, Khosla is a pioneer in India’s health food industry. She founded Whole Foods and established The Celiac Society of India, transforming public health awareness on nutrition and gluten-related disorders.

Shaifalika Panda – As Trustee & CEO of the Bansidhar & Ila Panda Foundation, Ms. Panda champions women-led interventions. A changemaker in grassroots development, she has spearheaded Project Unnati, a UN-recognized initiative transforming lives in Odisha’s remote districts.

Moderator

Manisha Ahlawat – Manisha Ahlawat is a politician and social activist, leading the women’s wing of RLD and serving on the Uttar Pradesh State Women’s Commission. With a background in business and women’s health, she advocates for empowerment and sustainable living.

Panel Discussion2: Digitalisation & Women’s Empowerment

This discussion will explore how digitalization is shaping the lives of women and the next generation by:

Enhancing financial literacy and independence through digital tools and resources.

Creating new job opportunities, including digital entrepreneurs and social media influencers.

Providing a marketplace for rural and urban women-led businesses to expand their reach.

Analyzing the role of digital access in shaping progressive mindsets and fostering gender inclusivity.

Panellists

Archna Vyas – A global leader in gender equality and economic empowerment, she has spent over two decades driving impactful change in growth and leadership for women worldwide. As Director of Program Advocacy & Communications at the Gates Foundation, Ms. Vyas oversees efforts for two foundation divisions: Global Growth & Opportunity and Gender Equality.

Dr. Umang Mathur – As the CEO of Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Dr. Mathur is a renowned ophthalmologist who has transformed the century-old institution. He founded its Eye Bank and led the Aadya Initiative, training rural girls as eye screeners and conducting over 2 million screenings in Uttar Pradesh.

Sanya Seth – As a Country Program Manager at UN Women, Ms. Seth specializes in gender-focused policy and program development. With 10 years of experience, she advocates for women’s economic rights through research, advocacy, and community initiatives.

Natasha Jog – Natasha is the Director of Public Policy at Meta, with over 15 years of experience in risk analysis, program management, and publicspeaking. She has led high-stakes projects, including elections and crisis management, while building global cross-functional relationships.Previously at NDTV, she excelled in communication, content strategy, and anchoring, shaping her expertise in media and policy.

Moderator

Shilpi Singh – A leadership coach and entrepreneur, Ms. Singh has mentored more than 2,500 women over the last 25 years. She runs The Unhotel Company and Studio4, combining travel, business innovation, and social impact.

Conclusion

KisanTrust’s IWD 2025 program is a step towards building a more equitable world. By addressing key issues in women’s health and digital empowerment, we strive to create lasting change that benefits women across diverse backgrounds.