The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has called for changing negative perceptions about women.

Speaking at the special Convocation of Banaras Hindu University being organized to mark the concluding ceremony of birth centenary of Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya today (December 25, 2012), the President said women must be treated with respect and should be provided a safe, secure and congenial environment in which their talents can flower and they can contribute their full share in the building of our nation. India's history, traditions, religions and cultural values as well as the Constitution demands nothing less. He called upon the faculty and students of BHU to take the lead in spreading awareness and sensitizing society at large on gender issues.

Describing Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviaya a statesman, scholar, educationist, journalist, social reformer and legislator, the President said his contribution to the making of Modern India has been immense and varied. Malaviyaji dedicated his whole life in the service of the nation. He was a great votary of women's education. His emphasis on women's education and empowerment should inspire us to redouble efforts in this regard.

The President unveiled the Foundation Stone of Centre for Inter-Cultural Studies and Centre for Human Values and Studies. He also launched a website on Mahamana and released Commemorative Coins in his memory on the occasion.