The Madhya Pradesh government has launched a landmark initiative called “Gaurav Kendra” for the safety and empowerment of women. The centre will provide women access to various skill development programmes, legal aid and counselling and self-employment opportunities.
Main Objectives of Gaurav Kendra
- Making women self-reliant: To economically empower women through various skill development programmes and provide them with employment opportunities.
- Safety and legal awareness: To increase awareness among women about domestic violence, sexual harassment and other legal issues and provide them with legal aid.
- Health and hygiene: To promote health and hygiene of women and children and provide them access to health services.
- Social awareness: To increase awareness about women’s rights and social issues and promote gender equality.
Features of Gaurav Kendra
- Single window system: A single window system will be set up to provide women a one-stop shop for various services.
- Skill development training: Women will be trained in sewing, embroidery, cosmetics, computer and other vocational skills.
- Financial assistance: Women will be provided loans and grants to set up self-employment.
- Counselling and guidance: Women will be provided counselling and guidance to deal with domestic violence, legal issues and other personal problems.
Initiatives of the Madhya Pradesh Government
The Madhya Pradesh government has set a target to open more than 2,500 centres across the state to set up Gaurav Centres. Through these centres, the government is taking important steps towards empowering women and providing them equal opportunities in society.
Future of setting up Gaurav Centres
The initiative of Gaurav Centres is commendable, but its long-term impact depends on several factors. Let us take a look at the prospects:
Success factors
- Effective Implementation: The success of the centres depends on the efficiency of their implementation. Appointing trained staff, creating proper infrastructure and spreading awareness among women is important.
- Public-private partnership: Collaboration between government and non-government organisations can play a vital role in providing skill development, financial assistance and market access to women.
- Continuous monitoring and evaluation: It is essential to monitor the progress of the programme and evaluate the benefits women are receiving. This will help identify gaps and improve the scheme.
Possible challenges
- Fund availability: Sufficient funds will be required to run the programme sustainably. Both budgetary allocations and funding from the private sector are important.
- Reach to remote areas: It is important to ensure that the services of Gaurav Kendras reach remote areas as well. For this, mobile units or outreach programmes can be considered.
- Women’s participation: Some women may hesitate to avail of the centres due to social norms or lack of awareness. It is important to raise awareness about these centres and involve community leaders.
Conclusion
Setting up of Gaurav Kendras in Madhya Pradesh is an important initiative towards women’s empowerment and social transformation. These centres will play a vital role in making women self-reliant, ensuring their safety and providing them equal opportunities in society.