Nayi Chetna Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence

The Nayi Chetna campaign has gained momentum with the launch of its third edition, “Pahal Badlaav Ki”. This initiative focuses on combating gender-based violence (GBV) across India. Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan brought into light that GBV is prevalent in both rural and urban areas. He emphasised the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and dignity.

Launch of Gender Resource Centres

The campaign introduced 227 new Gender Resource Centres (GRCs) in 13 states. These centres provide safe spaces for survivors of GBV. They offer information, legal assistance, and emotional support. Each GRC acts as a vital link in a broader support network, empowering women to share their experiences.

Collective Action and Initiatives

Union Minister Smt. Annpurna Devi launched the abkoibahananahi campaign. This initiative calls for collective action against GBV. She noted the involvement of 10 crore women in Self Help Groups (SHGs) and the government’s 49 women-focused schemes. These efforts aim to promote gender equality and provide comprehensive support to survivors.

Whole-of-Society Approach

The campaign advocates for a whole-of-society approach to eliminate GBV. This strategy involves collaboration across various sectors. Ministerial representatives stressed the need for community engagement to encourage dialogue and action against violence.

Previous Campaign Success

The Nayi Chetna 2.0 campaign reached over 6 crore individuals. It facilitated over 9 lakh community-led activities. Building on this success, Nayi Chetna 3.0 aims to create safe and inclusive spaces. The campaign promotes the message “Ek Saath Ek Awaaz
Hinsa Ke Khilaf”.

Inter-Ministerial Collaboration

An inter-ministerial advisory was revealed during the launch. This advisory involves eight ministries and departments, showcasing a “whole of government” approach. It aims to leverage resources and expertise to combat GBV effectively.

Objectives of Nayi Chetna 3.0

The campaign’s objectives include raising awareness about GBV, encouraging community action, providing timely assistance, and empowering local institutions. These goals aim to create a supportive environment for survivors and promote gender equality.

Engagement with Communities

The launch event was attended by various stakeholders. Representatives from government ministries, civil society organisations, and SHG members participated. Their involvement marks the campaign’s community-driven nature.

Future of Nayi Chetna

Nayi Chetna 3.0 will run until 23rd December 2024. It embodies the spirit of a Jan Andolan. The campaign seeks to break barriers of inequality and encourage a culture of respect and dignity for all women.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the role of Self Help Groups in promoting gender equality in rural India.
2. What are the implications of gender-based violence on women’s economic participation? Explain with suitable examples.
3. What is the significance of a whole-of-government approach in addressing social issues? Comment on its effectiveness.
4. Explain the concept of gender resource centres. How do they contribute to the empowerment of women in society?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the role of Self Help Groups in promoting gender equality in rural India.

1. Self Help Groups (SHGs) empower women by providing them with access to credit and financial resources.
2. SHGs encourage a sense of community and collective action, enabling women to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights.
3. They facilitate skill development and entrepreneurship, leading to increased economic independence for women.
4. SHGs often address social issues, including gender-based violence, promoting awareness and education within communities.
5. Government support and schemes linked to SHGs enhance their effectiveness in driving gender equality initiatives.

2. What are the implications of gender-based violence on women’s economic participation? Explain with suitable examples.

1. Gender-based violence (GBV) restricts women’s mobility, limiting their access to jobs and economic opportunities.
2. Women experiencing GBV may face mental health issues, impacting productivity and job retention.
3. GBV can lead to increased healthcare costs and loss of income, further entrenching poverty.
4. For example, women in rural areas may be discouraged from participating in agricultural activities due to fear of violence.
5. Communities with high GBV rates often see lower overall economic growth due to diminished female workforce participation.

3. What is the significance of a whole-of-government approach in addressing social issues? Comment on its effectiveness.

1. A whole-of-government approach ensures coordinated efforts across various ministries to tackle complex social issues.
2. This strategy promotes resource sharing and expertise, enhancing the effectiveness of initiatives like Nayi Chetna.
3. It facilitates comprehensive policy-making that considers the multifaceted nature of social problems, such as GBV.
4. Collaboration encourages accountability and transparency among government bodies, encouraging public trust.
5. Effectiveness is demonstrated in initiatives that have broader reach and impact, as seen in the Nayi Chetna campaigns.

4. Explain the concept of gender resource centres. How do they contribute to the empowerment of women in society?

1. Gender Resource Centres (GRCs) provide safe spaces for survivors of gender-based violence to access support services.
2. GRCs offer legal assistance, counseling, and information, empowering women to take action against violence.
3. They serve as community hubs for awareness programs, educating the public about gender equality and rights.
4. By validating survivors’ experiences, GRCs help rebuild their confidence and promote self-advocacy.
5. The establishment of GRCs reflects a commitment to addressing gender issues at a systemic level, encouraging societal change.