On March 8, International Women’s Day is observed. To commemorate this occasion, reports suggest that women in India and across the globe will receive complimentary entry to all centrally protected monuments on Friday.
This initiative encompasses all 3,691 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)–protected ticketed monuments and museums, including renowned sites such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Red Fort and Qutub Minar in Delhi, the Sun Temple in Konark, and the Ellora Caves and Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh.
All women visitors from both India and around the world will be offered complimentary admission to these monuments. This initiative was first introduced by the Ministry of Culture in 2019, initially granting free entry only to women visitors on Women’s Day in ASI monuments. However, in 2022, this policy was extended to include all visitors.
Additionally, women will enjoy free access to monuments in Lucknow managed by the Hussainabad and Allied Trust (HAT) and the ASI. According to Hindustan Times, women will not require a ticket to explore iconic structures in Lucknow such as Bada Imambada and Chota Imambada.
Amit Kumar, additional district magistrate and secretary of HAT, stated in a letter on Thursday, “The Lucknow district administration and HAT, Lucknow, has decided to grant free entry to women visitors at monuments under their management like Bada Imambada, Chhota Imambada, and Picture Gallery.” He specified that free entry for women is applicable only on Friday.
Movie Tickets: Jio Studios and Aamir Khan Productions have opted to reduce ticket prices for their recent release, Laapataa Ladies, to ₹100, as a special offer in celebration of Women’s Day.
Corporates launch schemes/campaigns :
Ahead of International Women’s Day, numerous companies unveiled initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in the workplace and launching special campaigns for women’s empowerment.
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) and furniture retailer IKEA reported the successful implementation of initiatives and schemes dedicated to women’s empowerment in line with their commitments.
IKEA, the furniture retailer, outlined policies prioritizing work-life balance. These include initiatives like Gender Equal Pay, providing a predictable 5-day workweek with schedules shared a month in advance, offering healthcare benefits for extended family members and same-sex partners, as well as parental leave accessible to both mothers and fathers.
