Raipur, July 10 -- Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the first anniversary celebration of the "Didi Ke Goth" programme in Raipur on Thursday and highlighted the vital role of women in nation-building, saying that empowering women is central to the state's development agenda.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said women have always held a place of honour in Indian culture and traditions, adding that society progresses when women are respected and empowered.

"Women have been held in high regard in our country since ancient times. God resides where women are worshipped. This has been the belief since ancient times. If we seek courage and strength, we worship Durga, Saraswati and Lakshmi. Today, we acknowledge t...