Economic self-reliance essential for safeguarding women: Bittu
The Himachal Government is committed to the socio-economic empowerment of women, said Sunil Sharma Bittu, Political Adviser to the Chief Minister, while addressing a Women Awareness Camp organised by the Himachal Pradesh Women Commission in Hamirpur on Monday. Chairperson of the State Women Commission Vidya Negi was also present.
Addressing participants and Anganwadi workers, Bittu said that economic self-reliance was essential for safeguarding women’s rights and dignity. He outlined key government initiatives, including daughters’ inheritance rights, reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, MNREGA and self-help group schemes, all aimed at promoting financial independence.
He said that the CM had increased procurement prices for natural farming produce and milk, directly benefitting rural women. The government had also supported marketing of self-help group products, with sales crossing Rs 2 crore. He lauded the Women Commission’s efforts, stating that such awareness camps played a vital role in educating women about their rights and ensuring justice for victims. He also appreciated Anganwadi workers for their role in implementing welfare schemes at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the occasion, Vidya Negi said the commission’s easily accessible office had led to an increase in complaints related to atrocities against women. She advised Anganwadi workers, as frontline functionaries, to report cases directly to the commission. Discussions during the camp covered gender discrimination, women’s issues and the achievements of the Women Commission.
Twenty meritorious girls who excelled in the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education examinations were felicitated under the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao mission.
Members of the Women Commission, including Saroj Sharma, Reena Pandir and Reena Daroch, along with Superintendent of Police Balbir Singh, Secretary Bushra Ansari Singh, Legal Officer Yashpal Sharma, DPO Anil Kumar and CDPO Kuldeep Singh Chauhan, were present.
