Tripura CM ManikSahaattends state program on observance of International Women's Day 2025

Mar 13, 2025

Agartala (Tripura), March 13 (ANI): In line with the global theme for International Women's Day 2025, "Rights, Equality, and Empowerment of Girls and Adolescents," Tripura has strengthened its commitment to women’s empowerment by implementing a range of initiatives aimed at eliminating social ills and providing opportunities for women and girls across the state. With a special focus on eradicating child marriage, Tripura is working tirelessly to uplift the status of women and provide them with the tools for a better future. The state has made remarkable strides in enhancing women's representation in local governance, with 50% reservation for women in the Tristar Panchayats and elected local bodies now in effect. Additionally, the state has introduced a 33% reservation for women in government jobs, including outsourcing opportunities. As part of its drive to empower women, the state also offers loans with a 3% interest rate to support women pursuing studies at national-level educational institutions. To bolster economic independence, 45 women have been trained and certified for driving, while an organization received funding to train 50 women in food production. Similarly, 50% of stalls in government-run markets have been reserved for women vendors. Tripura has made significant progress in providing critical support for victimized women. The state has operationalized a 24/7 helpline number “181,” which received 14,501 calls in the past year, providing assistance to 121 women. The state has also designated all Sub-Divisional Magistrates, CDPOs, and District Social Education Inspectors as Protection Officers under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and appointed special officers to prevent child marriage under the Prevention of Child Marriage Act, 2006. A "Hub for Empowerment of Women" has been set up in the state capital and each district to coordinate women's empowerment projects, offering women access to medical, legal, and police assistance under one roof. Shakti Sadans, long-term rehabilitation centers for women, are also being expanded to offer safe accommodation for victims. The state continues to prioritize the health and wellness of women through various schemes. Tripura operates 13 Women’s Health and Wellness Centers, alongside a 25-bed Halfway Home for mental health recovery in Narsinghgarh. The state also runs a Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Old Age Home for elderly women in West Tripura, providing a safe and supportive environment for the elderly. Financial aid is also being provided under the Pradhan MantriMatruVandanaYojana (PMMVY), benefiting 1,42,759 women, to improve the health and nutritional status of pregnant and lactating mothers. Additionally, the Chief Minister MatriPusthi Gift scheme offers Rs 500 every three months to pregnant women to support their nutritional needs. In line with the BetiBachaoBetiPadhao initiative, Tripura has focused on ensuring the survival, protection, education, and participation of every girl child. Since 2022-23, this project has been actively working in all districts of the state to eliminate gender bias and promote equal opportunities for girls. To further empower women in the workforce, the state has launched a "Working Woman Hostel" in Krishnanagar, Agartala, with plans for 10 more hostels across various districts. These facilities aim to provide safe accommodation for working women.