Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ proposal for the continuation of the ‘Safety of Women’ Umbrella Scheme. The project, slated to run from 2021-22 to 2025-26, will come at a total cost of Rs.1179.72 crore.
Of this substantial budget, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will contribute Rs.885.49 crore from its own allocation, while the remaining Rs.294.23 crore will be sourced from the Nirbhaya Fund.
Ensuring the safety of women involves a multi-faceted approach, encompassing stringent legal frameworks, efficient justice delivery systems, timely complaint redressal, and accessible support structures. The Indian government has made strides in this direction by amending key legislations such as the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and the Indian Evidence Act to establish stringent deterrence against offenses targeting women.
As part of its ongoing commitment to women’s safety, the Government of India, in collaboration with states and union territories, has rolled out numerous projects. These initiatives aim to strengthen state and union territory mechanisms for prompt intervention and investigation into crimes against women, enhancing efficiency in both investigation and crime prevention.
Key projects proposed for continuation under the ‘Safety of Women’ Umbrella Scheme include:
- 112 Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 2.0 – Strengthening the emergency response system to ensure swift assistance in times of need.
- Upgradation of Central Forensic Sciences Laboratories, Including Setting Up of National Forensic Data Centre – Enhancing forensic capabilities at the national level, including the establishment of a National Forensic Data Centre.
- Strengthening of DNA Analysis, Cyber Forensic Capacities in State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs) – Improving DNA analysis and cyber forensic capacities at state levels, bolstering forensic science laboratories.
- Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children – Addressing the growing concern of cybercrimes against women and children, emphasising prevention measures.
- Capacity Building and Training of Investigators and Prosecutors in Handling Sexual Assault Cases Against Women and Children – Focusing on enhancing the capabilities of investigators and prosecutors to handle cases of sexual assault.
- Women Help Desk & Anti-Human Trafficking Units – Establishing specialised units for women assistance and anti-human trafficking efforts.
This comprehensive initiative reflects the government’s dedication to addressing challenges related to women’s safety, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a secure and supportive environment for women across the nation.
