On the International Women’s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday denounced crimes against women, saying “our heads hang in shame,” and announced that the government was setting up ‘One-Stop Centres’ besides a helpline for those facing violence, abuse or harassment.
“I salute the indomitable courage and stellar achievements of women. Today, we renew our pledge to make women an equal and integral part of our development journey,” he said in a statement.
“Our heads hang in shame when we hear of instances of crime against women. We must walk shoulder-to-shoulder to end all forms of discrimination or injustice against women,” he said.
Helplines planned
Mr. Modi said the government was setting up ‘One-Stop Centres’ that will provide assistance, legal advice and psychological counselling to women who faced violence or abuse.
The government was also commencing a mobile helpline to enable women to dial 181 for access to counselling and referral services.
He said his government had initiated several measures aimed at bringing about a positive change in the lives of women.
“That is central to our vision of India’s progress and a life of dignity and opportunity for all our citizens,” the Prime Minister said and appealed to all for support in “transforming our vision into reality.”
Referring to the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ Yojana, he said it sought to usher in a paradigm shift in attitudes towards the girl child and placed emphasis on educating the girl child.
The Sukanya Samruddhi Yojana would provide support for marriage and education of young women. MUDRA Bank would help thousands of women achieve financial independence.
The Union Budget unveiled broad-based social security schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Bima Yojana and Atal Pension Yojana. — PTI
