Setting a significant precedent, the state of Madhya Pradesh had honored women on the occasion of International Women's Day. In what has become an initiative to empower women, Home Minister Narottam Mishra has appointed Meenakshi Verma as Home Minister of Madhya Pradesh for one day.  

While addressing the reporters on the one-day transition, Mishra said that today (Monday), on the occasion of International Women's Day, the public hearing at the residence was done by constable Meenakshi Verma. She had not only listened to the problems of the citizens as Home Minister but she had also directed the officials to resolve the problems of the people. 

Mishra said, "It is India where the woman is worshipped and that's why we call India as a mother if we want strength, we worship Durga, if we want education we go to Lord Saraswati, and if we want to earn wealth, we go to Lord Lakshmi". By citing that honoring women will rise the culture, Mishra said that he has started the day by honoring Meenakshi Verma to be the Home Minister of Madhya Pradesh for one day on the occasion of International Women's Day. 

Mishra appealed to every woman to come forward for the upliftment of society. According to reports, Meenakshi Verma is not the only one to get the honor as Congress MLA Juma Solanki was appointed as a Speaker for one day and she conducted the proceedings in Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday. Along with that, Assistant Director in the Legislative Assembly Karamjit Chhinna took over as Chief Marshal for one day. 

The state Home Ministry said that these initiatives are being taken to empower women on International Women's Day. The developments had gained major attention from across and beyond the borders and many took to social media and lauded the honor bestowed on women. 

The world celebrates International Women's Day every year on March 8 and this year, the celebration goes across many countries with the theme of "Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world". International Women's Day is a focal point in the movement for women's rights. The United Nations had officially begun celebrating women's day in 1977.