"For society to progress, women's empowerment is essential," said Mamatha Gatti, chairperson of the Cashew Development Corporation, emphasizing the need for women to actively participate in all aspects of society, including village meetings, as they move towards modernisation. She was speaking at the inauguration of a women's discussion forum and cultural event organised by the Pragatibandhu Self-Help Groups Federation under the Knowledge Development Women's Programme for Bantwal, held at the Manjunatheshwara Kalyana Mantapa. The event was part of the Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project. Gatti urged women to come to the forefront of society and highlighted the importance of support from parents as role models. She also acknowledged that the Dharmasthala project’s programmes, initiated by Hemaavati Heggade, are bearing fruit in empowering women. "The government has launched several schemes for women, and I encourage women to make full use of these opportunities by participating in development meetings and asserting their rights," she advised. Chidanand Rai Kakkya, president of the Central Federation of the Pragatibandhu Self-Help Groups, chaired the event. Prakash Karanta Narikombu, former president of Janajagruti Vedike, spoke about how the rural development programme has provided a solid foundation for women to become self-reliant. Jayanthi V Poojari, chairperson of the Panchaguarantee Implementation Committee, remarked that the forward-thinking approach of the Dharmasthala programme has made women’s independence a reality. Retired CDPO Gayathri Kambli, Mahabala Kulal, director of the Dharmasthala Rural Development Programme, former Federation president Krishna Poojari, and prominent figures such as Shekhar Samani were present at the event. During the programme, lawyer and Kittur Chennamma Awardee Shailaja Rajesh spoke on "Women’s Successful Steps with Stress Management." Bantwal Zone Project Officer Jayanand P welcomed the gathering and gave the introductory speech. Member Sharada expressed her views, and Knowledge Development Programme Coordinator Shruti delivered the vote of thanks. The event also featured a cultural programme.