Awareness Session on Gender-Based Violence and Emergency Support Services

IIS (Deemed to be University), Jaipur

Internal Complaints Committee

Activity Report

Title of the event: Awareness Session on Gender-Based Violence and Emergency Support Services

Type of Event (Session): Awareness Session

Date: 07.12.2024

Venue: E-304

Name of Resource person with designation: Dr. Vaishali Agrawal

No. of Participants/Beneficiaries: 18

Name of the activity Coordinator: Dr. Vaishali Agrawal, Assistant Professor, IIS (Deemed to be University)

Objective of the Session:

The primary objective of the session was to create awareness among students about the prevalence and impact of gender-based violence and to provide detailed information about emergency support services available in India

 

Summary/Description (max 500 words):

The awareness session, conducted by Dr. Vaishali Agrawal, was a comprehensive presentation focusing on eliminating gender-based violence and promoting the use of emergency response systems. Dr. Agrawal began by explaining the concept of gender-based violence, its various forms (physical, emotional, sexual, and economic), and its far-reaching consequences on individuals and society. She emphasized the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse, such as unexplained injuries, behavioral changes, and social isolation.

The session introduced students to three critical helpline services:

  1. Emergency Response (112): A single number for police, fire, and medical assistance, operational 24/7 across India. Students were guided on how to use this service effectively during emergencies.
  2. Women Helpline (181): A toll-free service dedicated to supporting women in distress. Dr. Agrawal elaborated on the services provided, including emotional support, legal guidance, and shelter assistance, assuring confidentiality and non-judgmental help.
  3. Child Line (1098): A helpline for children in need of care and protection. The students learned about its role in rescuing children from exploitation, providing rehabilitation, and assisting runaway or homeless children.

Dr. Agrawal highlighted the university’s initiatives to combat gender-based violence, including anti-harassment committees, awareness drives, and counseling services. She encouraged students to participate actively in these programs and to use their knowledge to create a safer environment on campus and beyond.

The session concluded with a call to action, urging students to spread awareness about these helplines, support survivors, and report incidents of violence. She reinforced the importance of collective effort in making a meaningful difference.

Outcome of the Session

The session successfully achieved its objective of raising awareness about gender-based violence and emergency support services. The following outcomes were observed:

  • Students gained a clear understanding of the various forms of gender-based violence and their impact on society.
  • Participants became familiar with the functioning and accessibility of helpline numbers 112, 181, and 1098.
  • Increased awareness about recognizing and responding to signs of abuse.
  • Encouragement among students to participate in university-led initiatives for promoting safety and inclusivity.
  • Empowerment of students to act as informed and responsible individuals in addressing and preventing gender-based violence.

The session received positive feedback from the participants, who expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge gained to make their communities safer.