According to the NCRB, almost 78 women were raped in India every day in the year 2020. 69 girls under the age of sixteen were raped/ gang raped during the year. In 94 out of 100 cases, the offenders were known to the survivors and almost 28% of cases were registered under ‘cruelty by husband or his relatives’.
Gadag, Karnataka: In today’s world, it is more important than ever for girls to learn self-defense. Rampant gender-based violence and alarmingly high number of incidents of crime against girls and women highlight the urgent need for equipping our girls with appropriate skills and knowledge to protect themselves. Not only would this go a long way in reparation of gender justice in our society but will also empower girls right from their formative years to put their foot down against violence and exploitation. That’s precisely what ABHAYA – THE FEARLESS Intervention conceptualized by ARCH Development Foundation and supported by Viviid Emissions Reductions Universal Private Limited on behalf of its clients is meant for. Self Defense is way beyond just swinging prompt reflexes. It is a structured response mechanism for which our girls and women are being equipped to utilize their cognitive and physical faculties coupled up with strong foundational knowledge about their rights and liberties as guaranteed by the Constitution and various Statutes both at Central as well as State Level.
“Emulating our experience of imparting Self-Defense training to adolescent girls in Kotri Village of Jaisalmer District in Rajasthan, we have now undertaken this intervention to Kolar and Gadag Districts of Karnataka as well.”, said Puneet Katyal, Chief Executive Officer at Viviid Emissions Reductions Universal Private Limited. Further substantiating his point, Mr. Katyal asserted, “Countless cases of assault, harassment, and abuse remind us of the vulnerabilities faced by girls in various settings, including schools, workplaces, and public spaces. By learning self-defense, girls gain a sense of empowerment, confidence, and resilience which becomes exemplary for all, simultaneously sending a loud message of zero tolerance towards crime against woman. According to me no crime against a girl or a woman can be taken lightly. What starts as an inappropriate gesture today may lead to rape or acid attack tomorrow. It is with this sense of emergency that we have asked our Civil Society Partner ARCH Development Foundation to empower girls and impart self-defense training to them. The ultimate objective of this comprehensive intervention is to progressively work towards attaining equal status for women and girls in all aspects of social and rights-based development within the community. The multi-faceted intervention encompasses self-defence training, awareness about health and wellness, assistive education, personality development, awareness about government schemes and social welfare entitlements. This intervention crosscuts SDGs 5 on Gender Equality, Goal 3 on Good Health and Well Being, Goal 4 on Quality Education and Goal 10 on Reduced Inequalities. When the girls are fearless only then can they realise their true potential.”
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Village Leaders Unite to Overcome Challenges, Construct Dedicated Training Space
One of the most remarkable aspects of the intervention ‘Abhaya – The Fearless’ in Gadag Taluka of Karnataka has been the unwavering determination and unity demonstrated by the village’s male leaders. In the early stages of the initiative, a daunting challenge arose due to the absence of a suitable training center to conduct self-defense classes for adolescent girls. However, in a heartwarming display of community spirit, the village leaders stood together, demonstrated incredible unity, and took a firm resolve to overcome this obstacle. Through their collaborative efforts, a dedicated space for conducting self-defense training workshops was constructed in record time, ensuring that the project proceeded as planned.
“We are immensely grateful to the individuals who made this feat possible. My sincere thanks to Shivanand Ji Chairman of APMC and owner of the premises; Nandeesh Shetru, a community influencer; and Prof. Ningappa, Principal of the Local Primary School. Their invaluable support and commitment to the cause have paved the way for the realization of this crucial initiative, providing a safe and conducive environment for adolescent girls to learn self-defense.” said Puneet Katyal.
This awe-inspiring display of unity and determination by the village leaders serves as a shining example of the power of community collaboration. Their collective efforts have not only overcome a significant obstacle-course but have also set a strong foundation for the success of the ‘Abhaya – The Fearless’ Through their dedication, they have not only contributed to the empowerment and safety of adolescent girls but also demonstrated a shift in the patriarchal mindset. Such is the transformative potential of community-driven initiatives.
Sonkee Shah, representative of ARCH Development Foundation, emphasized the pressing need for interventions like ‘Abhaya – The Fearless’ in present times. She underscored the importance of equipping women and girls with self-defence skills, as it not only enhances their personal safety but also contributes to their overall empowerment and well-being. Ms. Shah acknowledged the collaboration between ARCH Development Foundation, Vidya Rani Trust, and Viviid Emission Reductions Universal Private Limited, highlighting the collective efforts towards creating a more equitable and just society.
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‘Abhaya – The Fearless’ intervention is poised to make a lasting impact by fostering gender equality, enhancing the safety and well-being of women and girls, and promoting their active participation in the social and economic tapestry of their communities. The collaboration between Vidya Rani Trust, ARCH Development Foundation, and support from Viviid Emission Reductions Universal Private Limited exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving positive change. This collectivism upholds the spirit of Sustainable Development Goal 17 which is all about forging partnerships to drive social change.
“At Viviid Emissions Reductions Universal Private Limited, we are driven by a deep-rooted dedication to fostering sustainable and inclusive development. We recognize that empowering marginalized communities, especially women and girls, is an essential aspect of creating a fair and equitable society. It is through initiatives like ‘Abhaya – The Fearless’ that we can actively contribute to uplifting and transforming the lives of those who have faced social, economic, and gender barriers. I am happy to state that in our commitment of taking People and Planet together, very special emphasis is laid for all girls and women to build a society Where their Mind is Without Fear and their Head is Held High.”, concluded Puneet Katyal.
