Himachal Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur Monday said It was difficult to think of development of a society without the welfare and empowerment of women, who constitute half the population,
Addressing the state-level legal awareness programme, held here by the state Commission for Women, he said collective efforts are required to ensure women empowerment.
Thakur said that although several laws have been enacted for women empowerment and checking crime against them, still a lot more needs to be done.
Merely making laws is not enough, but the need of the hour is to change the mindset of society, he said.
Appreciating the state Commission for Women, the Chief Minister said it is rendering a great service to the society for empowering and making the women aware of their rights.
The Commission receives about 1,000 cases every year, out of which over 600 are redressed by it amicably, he said.
As many as nine women awareness camps and five legal awareness camps were organized in the State during the tenure of present State Government to create awareness amongst the women about their rights.
He said girls should be educated from the very beginning regarding their rights and laws to safeguard their rights.
He said the State Government started Gudiya Help line 1515 for checking crime against the women and they can call on this toll free number at the time of distress. In addition, the State has also started Shakti App for empowerment of the women.
Thakur unveiled the 'logo' of Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Women on the occasion.
Chairperson, State Commission for Women Daizy Thakur said such programme give an opportunity to the women to have knowledge about their rights.