The Punjab State Rural Livelihoods Mission (PSRLM) launched the National Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The event was held to raise awareness about the critical issue of gender-based violence and to promote gender equality across the region.
The event was inaugurated under the chairmanship of Sh. Surinder Pal Angra, Additional Chief Executive Officer, PSRLM, and featured insightful sessions from esteemed speakers: Dr. Upneet Kaur Mangat, Assistant Professor at the Centre for Human Rights and Duties, Panjab University, and Advocate Aarti Sharma, Empanelled Lawyer at the Mohali District Legal Service Authority.
Mr. Mandeep Singh Punia, State Programme Manager of PSRLM, extended a warm welcome to all attendees. In his opening remarks, he shed light on the important role of the PSRLM in empowering women, not only economically but also socially, ensuring they become active participants in community development and decision-making processes.
The event brought together a diverse group of attendees, including employees from various rural development schemes and community members benefiting from the PSRLM programs. Dr. Upneet Kaur Mangat conducted a session on gender sensitivity, emphasizing the need to address gender inequality and shift societal attitudes towards more equitable perspectives on gender issues.
Her presentation highlighted the significance of awareness and education in fostering a culture of respect and equality. Advocate Aarti Sharma focused her session on sexual harassment of women at the workplace, educating the attendees on relevant legislations and providing them with crucial information on legal rights and remedies available to women facing harassment.
Through her insightful talk, she raised awareness of the importance of creating safe work environments and understanding the legal frameworks that protect women. The event was held as part of the National Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, with the objective of creating awareness, sparking conversations, and promoting legal, social, and cultural shifts to address this pervasive issue.
The event was coordinated by Ms Aman, Ms Aanchal Sawa (Young Professionals) and Sh Deepak Bhardwaj, Cluster Coordinator, PSRLM.