District Hub for Empowerment of Women conducts Gender Sensitization and Legal Aids Programme under SANKALP Campaign, Namchi.

The programme is a part of the ongoing 10-Day Special Awareness Campaign under SANKALP: Hub for Empowerment of Women.

The programme was conducted with the objective of creating awareness in gender equality, promoting positive attitude and encouraging participants to challenge stereotypes and discriminatory practices.

Ms Sophia Lepcha AD Nutrition cum Disctrict Nodal Officer in her keynote address, highlighted the significance of gender sensitization in everyday life and stressed on the need to cultivate mutual respect and equal opportunities for both men and women. She further emphasized that sensitization at the grassroots level is essential to ensure a safer society.

During the session, the participants were informed about the social, cultural and economic aspects of gender issues, along with the importance of equal participation in education, employment and community development.

The Interactive segment encouraged the students to share their perspectives and experiences with the bigger vision of transforming thoughts and impactful results in fostering a gender-sensitive environment.

Ms Dawa Kipu Bhutia (Gender Specialist, DHEW) delivered a brief Power Point Presentation (PPT) underlining the significance of gender equality, sensitization on gender- based issues and the need to create safe and respectful spaces within both educational institutions and community at large.

Ms Divyashree Rai (Psychologist/Resource Person) addressed key issues relating to child sex ratio, adolescence and health concerns such as terminal illnesses, cancer, anemia and metabolic disorders.

She further emphasized the role of awareness and timely intervention in addressing health and developmental challenges faced by adolescents.

Ms Kharka Maya Rai ( Advocate/Resource Person) addressed the gathering by highlighting the legal prospects benefitting women in cases of domestic abuse, mental harassment and other pressing social issues that hinder a women’s true freedom.

She emphasized that the OSC plays a vital role not only in guiding women through legal procedures but also in providing counselling and protection services.

Stressing on the principal of equality before law, she remarked that justice stands above all barriers of gender, caste, creed or colour.

She also mentioned the success of notable state initiatives such as the Aama Scheme and Bahini Scheme, both of which have been designed to honour, empower and uplift the women of our society.

Additionally, she reminded the gathering about the Women Helpline number 181 and the Child Helpline number 1098, both fully functional and available to assist those in need of immediate support and protection.

Present during the programme were District Coordinator Ms Hema Devi Sharma, Gender Specialist Ms Brinda Tamang, Welfare Inspector Ms Rashmi Rai, Senior Lecturer Ms Nayuma Rai and students DIET Namchi.