Namchi Launches 100-Day Women’s Empowerment Campaign at Temi Senior Secondary School

The event was graced by Ms Binita Bista, Panchayat President of Temi Namphing, who served as the Chief Guest. Other notable attendees included Mr Laxman Tamang CDPO Namchi, Ms Sophia Lepcha AD (Nutrition), Ms Samjana Tamang Nutrition Inspector, Dr Kamala Pariyar from Health Department Temi, Ms Megha Pradhan Protection Officer, Ms Puspa Rai Welfare Inspector, Ms Susanta Subba from the Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts (DHH), along with the Principal, Vice-Principal, staff members, and students of Temi Senior Secondary School.

The campaign’s objective was to enhance women’s security, empowerment, and protection.

Mr Laxman Tamang, CDPO Namchi, highlighted the significance of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, underscoring the fundamental right of every girl child to be born. He explained that the scheme addresses not only the prevention of gender-based abortions but also aims to ensure that every girl child receives an education. By promoting gender equality through education, the BBBP scheme seeks to foster a society where girls are valued and given equal opportunities to succeed.

Ms Megha Pradhan, Protection Officer, provided an overview of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2021, which safeguards children of all genders from sexual abuse. She discussed the various offences covered under the Act, including sexual assault and harassment, and highlighted the psychological impacts of abuse, the issue of false reports, and the serious consequences of early marriage and teenage pregnancy.

Dr Kamala Pariyar from the Health Department, Temi, spoke on the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act of 1994, which aims to prevent female feticide and address declining sex ratios. She emphasised that the Act prohibits sex selection and the determination of the sex of the fetus.

Ms Samjana Tamang, Nutrition Inspector, delivered a presentation on junk food, detailing its negative health effects such as obesity and heart disease. She encouraged the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Ms Susanta Subba from the Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts (DHH) discussed the importance of vocational skills. She outlined the DHH’s efforts to support traditional crafts through training programmes that teach skills in weaving and handicraft making. These programmes aim to create job opportunities and preserve local culture.

Ms Puspa Rai, Welfare Inspector, explained the various schemes available to students at both central and state levels, providing detailed information on the scholarship application process. Her insights were intended to help students navigate the resources available to support their education.

Ms Heema Devi Sharma, Coordinator of HUB, provided information on helplines for women’s and children’s protection and safety. She emphasised the importance of these services and encouraged students to utilise them in emergencies. Further she stated that Women Helpline (181) and the Child Line (1098) are available for immediate assistance and support.