Patna district has launched an extensive 16-day awareness campaign aimed at combating gender-based violence across the region. The initiative, which began on Tuesday, will continue running until December 10, covering all areas of Patna district through multiple coordinated activities.
Comprehensive Campaign Strategy
District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM announced that the campaign employs a diverse range of engagement methods to reach various segments of society. The activities include 'run for women' events, educational seminars, public rallies, 'prabhat pheri' morning processions, cycle rallies, various competitions, workshops, and 'nukkad-natak' street plays. These programs are being conducted across all panchayats, blocks, sub-divisions, educational institutions, hospitals, and Anganwadi kendras to ensure maximum reach.
The district administration has designed the campaign to enhance social sensitivity and foster commitment among all stakeholders toward eliminating violence against women and girls. This is being achieved through robust inter-departmental coordination involving multiple government bodies.
Focus Areas and Training Components
The street plays specifically address contemporary issues like digital violence and women's rights, while the training sessions cover crucial aspects of gender-based violence. Participants learn about identifying gender-based violence, screening for domestic violence, understanding referral processes, and increasing awareness about the 'she-box' portal, one-stop centers, and helpline numbers.
An important component of the campaign includes discussions on the role of men in preventing gender-based violence, recognizing that creating a safer society requires collective responsibility. The initiative also spreads information about liquor prohibition, child marriage prevention, and anti-dowry laws while working to strengthen women's safety, development, and empowerment.
Administration's Commitment and Future Goals
District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM emphasized that the administration prioritizes zero tolerance for gender-based violence as part of establishing an ideal society. He stated that officers must ensure information about anti-violence laws reaches every household to prevent gender-based discrimination effectively.
The DM called upon all stakeholders to play an active role in the campaign, confirming that the entire administration remains vigilant and committed to the cause. Promoting girl child education and women's empowerment remains the administration's top priority, with officers required to coordinate effectively to ensure compliance with the zero-tolerance policy against gender violence.
The district programme office (ICDS) in Patna is organizing the comprehensive drive with participation from multiple departments including education, social welfare, health, IPRD, welfare, agriculture, and Jeevika, demonstrating a unified approach to addressing gender-based violence in the region.
