Central University of Jammu Organises Day long Awareness Camp at Block Purmandal, Samba

JAMMU, March 16: In honour of International Women’s Day and in alignment with this year’s theme of “Inspiring Inclusion,” Social work trainee Makhnu, in collaboration with the Field Work Unit Department of Social Work at the Central University of Jammu, orchestrated a full-day awareness camp at Khada Madana, Block Purmandal, Jammu and Kashmir. Under the expert guidance of her mentor, Dr. Ranvir, the event garnered enthusiastic participation from over 110 attendees, including local women, social work trainees and research scholars from the department.

The day commenced with a spirited awareness rally championing women’s rights and empowerment, drawing the participation of school children, women, as well as members of PRI and SHG. Dr. Ranvir Singh, Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work, Central University of Jammu, delivered the welcome address, setting the tone for a day filled with enlightenment and empowerment. Dr. Nancy Mengi, Head of the Department of Social Work at the Central University of Jammu, delivered an insightful talk highlighting the pivotal role of women’s empowerment in driving societal progress.

Mrs. Anuradha from the District Hub for Empowerment of Women explained the department’s objectives and available benefits for women. Subsequently, Ms. Qazi Insha Akeel, Ms. Arti and Ms. Ankita, Counsellors and Case Workers from the One Stop Centre, outlined essential helpline numbers for individuals in distress and shed light on the various services offered, including counselling, temporary shelter and legal aid under Mission Shakti. Further enriching the discourse, Mrs. Purnima Rana from JK Bank discussed digital literacy and the array of financial services tailored for women. Miss Kajal from the Special Cell for Women engaged the audience in an interactive session on different forms of violence and reproductive health issues.

With the insight developed from various sessions, Dr. Ranvir Singh appealed to the Sarpanch of Madana and Khada Madana Panchayats to facilitate exclusive ‘all women gram sabha’ in their respective panchayats so their issues and concerns get addressed appropriately.

The event also showcased a poignant group dance performance by the girls of Govt. High School, Khada Madana, reflecting the challenges faced by women and girls in society. The efforts and initiatives of Makhnu and the Department of Social Work at the Central University of Jammu were lauded by Mrs. Sunita Devi Sarpanch Madan Panchayat and Mr. Anil Sharma, Sarpanch Khada Madana.

Miss Arti, Cluster Coordinator from JKRLM (UMEED), shared her experiences working with women clusters and elucidated the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in empowering women. Dr. Bhat Iqbal Majeed, Director of the Field Work Unit at Central University of Jammu, concluded the event with a vote of thanks, followed by the rendition of the national anthem and a group photograph.

The day was not only intellectually stimulating but also spiritually uplifting, as attendees departed with renewed vigour to champion the cause of women’s empowerment in their communities.