Mohali, March 19 -- Positioning women at the centre of Punjab's growth story, chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday laid out an expansive vision for their role in governance, economy and society, asserting that real empowerment lies in education, representation and economic opportunity.

Speaking at a felicitation event awarding grassroot entrepreneurs in Mohali, the CM said in the larger interest of the nation, women, who manage homes and families efficiently should also run the country. "The state government is committed to this noble cause and is leaving no stone unturned for it. Encouraging greater political participation," he said.

"Girls must come forward and participate in politics to become active partners in decision-making ...