Under the aegis of the Responsible Tourism Mission and the Nari Sashaktikaran Mission of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, a Security Pledge, Dialogue and Felicitation event was organised on the occasion of Nirbhaya Day at Apex Bhawan. The event was organised with the support of Sangini, the Police Department, and the Department of Women and Child Development.
The programme was presided over by the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts Department, who addressed over 600 young women present at the event. In his address, he emphasised that in Indian culture, women are revered as embodiments of strength and form the backbone of society. He highlighted the vital role women play in instilling values, strength, and inspiration in future generations. He further stressed the need for collective efforts by all government departments, civil society organisations, and service providers to create an environment in Madhya Pradesh where women, whether tourists or local service providers, feel safe, confident, and comfortable.
Additional Director General of Police (Women Safety), Shri Anil Kumar, shared information on various initiatives undertaken by the Police Department to enhance women’s safety. These included the Nirbhaya Squad, One Stop Centres, Urja Desks, the 112 emergency service, and other dedicated efforts aimed at ensuring timely support and protection for women.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (Community Policing), Shri Vineet Kapoor, spoke in detail about international-level initiatives in the field of women’s empowerment, as well as the creative activities and innovative practices adopted by the Madhya Pradesh Police in this area.
Secretary, State Women’s Commission, Shri Suresh Tomar, focused on the importance of gender sensitisation and emphasised the need for capacity-building and awareness programmes to strengthen systems supporting women’s rights and safety.
Joint Directors from the Department of Women and Child Development, Ms. Naqvi Jahan Qureshi, Ms. Parvat Rohi, and Ms. Jyoti Ratre, addressed the young women and encouraged them to never give up under any circumstances and to have faith in their own abilities and potential.
On this occasion, the Head of Sangini, Dr. Prarthana Mishra, highlighted the work carried out under the Safe Tourist Destinations for Women project and shared insights into Sangini’s efforts towards creating safer and more inclusive public spaces.
Superintendent of Police, Cyber Cell, Shri Pranay Nagvanshi, sensitised participants on cyber safety and shared information on initiatives undertaken by the department to promote digital awareness and protection.
During the programme, more than 50 individuals from across the state were honoured for their special contributions towards women’s empowerment. Those felicitated included girls from Srijan and the Bhopal Tourist Facilitation Centre, representatives from Samman Sanstha, Indore, social workers Rajendra Bandhu and Meeta Wadhwa, Rakshanda Zahid, Nainika, and homestay operator Keerti Kevat, among others.
Over 20 stalls were set up by various departments and organisations, including the Animal Husbandry Department, Skill Development Department, Police Department, Department of Women and Child Development, Impact for Nutrition, Ward Sanstha, and several non-governmental organisations. These stalls showcased various schemes, initiatives, and efforts aimed at promoting women’s empowerment.
The event also featured a powerful dance-drama titled Shakti Aradhana performed by Sangratna and her team, which inspired the audience. Additionally, a Power Walk was presented by girls trained by the Police Department, creating a strong impact on attendees.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. D. P. Singh, Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.
