Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 29: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has reinforced its commitment to strengthening women’s safety and security through a combination of legal reforms, financial investments, and specialized support services. The government has introduced several key initiatives, including the Nirbhaya Fund, women’s helpline (181), One Stop Centers (OSCs), Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), SHe-Box for workplace harassment complaints, and women help desks providing legal, medical, and psychological aid.
A multi-faceted strategy combining law enforcement, rehabilitation, and mental health support has been identified as essential to fostering a safer and more empowering environment for women. The financial commitment towards these efforts is substantial, with Rs 7,712.85 crore allocated under the Nirbhaya Fund for 2024-25, out of which approximately 76% (Rs 5,846.08 crore) has already been utilized. The fund backs critical projects such as Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs), Anti-Human Trafficking Units (AHTUs), cyber forensic labs, safe city initiatives, and transport security programs, along with the Central Victim Compensation Fund (CVCF) to support victims of crime.
Acknowledging the profound impact of domestic and gender-based violence on women’s mental health, the government has expanded access to trauma-focused psychological support. Studies have shown that intimate partner violence significantly increases the risk of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicide, underscoring the necessity of integrated intervention strategies. Project Stree Manoraksha, led by NIMHANS, is one such initiative ensuring trauma-informed care at OSCs. The program trains counselors, caseworkers, legal aid providers, and healthcare personnel to deliver empathetic and culturally sensitive mental health care to survivors seeking assistance.
Alongside these interventions, the government has fortified legal safeguards through various women-centric laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013.
Through this comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach, the government aims to build an environment where women are safe, supported, and empowered, ensuring their rights and dignity are upheld in every sphere of life.