Umbrella Scheme on Safety of Women: A Comprehensive Initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has embarked on a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the safety of women across India through its Umbrella Scheme on ‘Safety of Women’. Spanning from 2021-22 to 2025-26, this scheme underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the well-being and security of women in the country.
Project Outlay
With a total project outlay of Rs.1179.72 crore, the MHA is allocating Rs.885.49 crore from its own budget, supplemented by Rs.294.23 crore from the Nirbhaya Fund. This substantial financial investment underscores the government's dedication to addressing issues related to women's safety comprehensively.
Objectives
The primary objective of the Umbrella Scheme on Safety of Women is to create an environment where women feel secure and protected. This involves various measures, including stringent deterrence through legal amendments, effective delivery of justice, timely redressal of complaints, and accessible institutional support structures for victims. The recent amendments to the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Indian Evidence Act are indicative of the government's commitment to providing a robust legal framework for safeguarding women's rights.
Projects Covered
Under this scheme, the Government of India is focusing on several key projects:
112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0: This project aims to establish a swift and efficient emergency response system to address distress calls from women in need of assistance. The upgraded ERSS 2.0 will enhance the responsiveness of law enforcement agencies in handling emergencies.
Upgradation of Central Forensic Sciences Laboratories: The initiative includes the establishment of a National Forensic Data Centre and the modernization of existing facilities. This upgrade is crucial for improving forensic capabilities and expediting the investigation process.
Strengthening of DNA Analysis and Cyber Forensic Capacities: State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) will receive support to enhance their capabilities in DNA analysis and cyber forensics. This is essential for gathering evidence and prosecuting perpetrators of crimes against women.
Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children: With the proliferation of digital platforms, cybercrimes targeting women and children have become a pressing concern. This project aims to develop preventive measures and enhance cybersecurity infrastructure to protect vulnerable groups.
Capacity Building and Training: Specialized training programs will be conducted to equip investigators and prosecutors with the skills required to handle cases of sexual assault against women and children sensitively and effectively.
Women Help Desk & Anti-Human Trafficking Units: These units will provide support and assistance to women in distress, including victims of trafficking. By establishing dedicated help desks and anti-trafficking units, the government aims to combat this heinous crime and provide rehabilitation to survivors.
Conclusion
The Umbrella Scheme on Safety of Women reflects the government's holistic approach towards addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with women's safety. Through strategic investments, legislative reforms, and targeted initiatives, the government is committed to creating a safer and more secure environment for women across the nation. By collaborating with states and union territories, the scheme aims to foster a society where every woman can live with dignity and without fear.