International Women's Day is being celebrated today. Governments, NGOs and other organisations across the globe observe 8th of March every year as, International Women's Day, to highlight the achievements of women.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu have extended greetings to all women on the eve of International Women’s Day. In his message, Mr Kovind said, this is a day to recognise the contributions of women in different facets of life. He said women of the country have succeeded admirably in their endeavours, often in the face of formidable challenges.

In his message, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said, Social, economic and political empowerment of women should be given top priority to achieve rapid progress of the country. He said people have to act collectively to raise awareness of discrimination of the girl child. Mr Naidu said every household, neighbourhood, school, institutions and community should start gender-sensitization.

He said, the mindset to respect girls and women should be promoted at home and in schools, public areas and public transport. Vice President said, the change should begin at home first and Parents should ensure that there is no discrimination between a boy and girl.

The President said they are a source of inspiration for their families and for the society and nation. He appealed people to work to a future where every Indian woman gets what she deserves - equal treatment under conditions of equality.

On the occasion, President Ram Nath Kovind will give away the Nari Shakti awards in New Delhi. The award is given to eminent women and institutions in recognition of their service towards the cause of women empowerment.

International Women's Day is a global celebration of the social, cultural, economic and political achievements of women. It is celebrated annually on this day. This year's theme is "Time Is Now: Rural and urban activists transforming women's lives". Women's Day was first observed on 28th February 1909 in New York.

At 1910 International Woman's Conference, 8th March was suggested to be observed as "International Woman's Day." March 8 also became a national holiday in Soviet Russia in 1917 after women gained suffrage there. Later, in 1975, International Women's Day was celebrated for the first time by the United Nations.