Early Times Report JAMMU, Apr 13: IGNOU Regional Centre Jammu today organized an event to celebrate the historic "Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam" (106th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2023). The program aimed to sensitize students about women's leadership and the 33% reservation for women in legislative bodies, to educate students on the provisions of the Women's Reservation Bill, and to honour the role of women in nation-building and social transformation. The event was organized at the Regional Campus of IGNOU at Bantalab, Jammu on the sidelines of an Induction programme of the students of MA (Environment Sciences) and M.Sc. (Environment Sciences) in which a number of students participated. The event witnessed the presence of Dr. Kunwarani Ritu Singh, Chairperson DPS, Ms. Anna Singh, Superintendent of Police (SP) Headquarters, Jammu, Ms. Sangeeta Chauhan, Second in Command, CRPF, and Malu Sharma, Head Media Relations, IDPS, Jammu. The event began with a welcome address by the Regional Director, Dr. Sandeep Gupta, who gave insight into the event referring to the central government's initiative surrounding the landmark Nari Shakto Vandan Adhiniyam (Women's Reservation Act, 2023) which was passed in 2023. Dr. Sandeep stated that it represents a decisive shift toward "women-led development" by ensuring significant female representation in India's highest legislative bodies. Dr. Sandeep informed that Regional Centre Jammu is already enrolling around 50% female students out of the total enrolment for the last five years Dr. Kunwarani Ritu Singh in her address said that the Nation today stands at a historic crossroads in her journey. "With the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, we aren't just giving women their due-we are strengthening the very foundation of our democracy. By reserving 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, we are ensuring that the daughters of India are no longer just voters, but the architects of our destiny", she said. Ms. Anna Singh said that true safety comes from more than just patrolling the streets-it comes from empowerment and when women hold 33% of the seats in our Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, they aren't just making laws; they are redefining the security landscape of the nation. "More women in power means policies that prioritize the safety of every daughter, sister, and mother. It means a more empathetic approach to justice and a stronger resolve to eliminate crime. This 'Abhiyan' sends a clear message to every citizen: women are no longer just protected; they are the protectors and policy-makers of India", said Ms Sangeeta Chauhan. Malu Sharma said, "The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is the breaking news we have been waiting for. As journalists and commentators, we have covered countless debates on women's safety, education, and health. But today, the narrative shifts. By securing 33% reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, we aren't just reporting on progress; we are witnessing a fundamental rewrite of India's democratic script." Dr. Sandeep Gupta in his induction message to students, most of whom were female, said that this Act is a message from the nation to the students that their voice is not just welcome; it is essential. He said whether you are studying science, commerce, or the arts, you now have a guaranteed path to represent your community and shape the laws of this great nation. "We are moving from being a society that 'protects' its daughters to one that is led by them", said the Regional Director. |