TFP Bureau, Raipur; Dec 9, 2023:* The State Rural Livelihood Mission (BIHAN), in collaboration with UNICEF, hosted a state-level workshop in Nava Raipur to shed light on the ongoing efforts across various departments to eradicate gender inequality as part of the “Nai Chetna – Gender Campaign 2.0” initiated by the Government of India.
Officials from crucial departments such as Police, Panchayat and Rural Development, Health and Family Welfare, Women and Child Development, Social Welfare, School Education, Tribal and Scheduled Caste Development, Labor, Forest Department, Chhattisgarh State Legal Services Authority, and State Rural Development Training Institute participated in the workshop. Representatives from organizations including Chaitanya, Pradan, TRIF, PCI, along with NGOs collaborating with BIHAAN and BIHAAN’s Didis (sisters), as well as state and district-level officials, were also actively involved.
The “Nai Chetna – Gender Campaign 2.0” is a nationwide initiative by the Government of India aimed at fostering awareness among rural families regarding gender-based discrimination and domestic violence. The campaign, which commenced on November 25, is operational in Chhattisgarh from December 4 to December 23.
Addressing the inaugural session, Shri Prasanna R., Secretary of the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, emphasized the pivotal role of women’s economic empowerment through the National Rural Livelihood Mission. The tagline “Will not bear, will say… will break the silence” encapsulates the essence of the campaign, urging individuals to speak out against gender violence and contribute to dismantling gender inequalities.
Smt. Padmini Bhoi Sahu, Director of the State Rural Livelihood Mission, stressed the importance of respecting women’s privacy and emotions while positively resolving issues affecting them. The workshop witnessed the release of the Gender Resource Center guide and saw guests and participants taking an oath to oppose gender violence, create a safe environment for women, and provide support.
COO of the State Rural Livelihood Mission, Mrs. Alice Lakra, highlighted ‘Bihaan’s’ role in the “Nai Chetna – Gender Campaign 2.0,” showcasing efforts to combat gender inequality. Representatives from various departments and organizations detailed their field-level contributions to eliminating gender inequality during the workshop.
