Srinagar | 17 May: The National Commission for Women organised Shakti Samvaad — a two-day program with Chairpersons, Members and Member Secretaries of State Women Commissions on 16–17 May 2026 in Srinagar. Representatives from more than 20 States participated in the program, which focused on strengthening institutional coordination, enhancing capacity building, and fostering dialogue for women’s welfare and empowerment.
The program was inaugurated by Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar, Hon’ble Chairperson, NCW. Addressing the inaugural session, she highlighted that while women today are making remarkable contributions across governance, judiciary, science, media and public life, ensuring their safety, dignity and equal opportunities remains a collective responsibility. She emphasised that Women Commissions are not merely grievance redressal bodies, but institutions of trust, support and justice for women.
The valedictory session was graced by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences; Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he underscored the importance of coordinated institutional efforts and policy support in advancing women-led development in India. He also emphasised that science and technology are powerful tools for social transformation and can play a pivotal role in improving the lives of women by enhancing access to education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and digital opportunities.
The program featured sessions on State Law Review from a Women’s Rights Perspective, Recent Supreme Court and High Court Judgments Related to Women, Addressing Stalking – Legal & Institutional Response, and Women and the New Labour Codes. Experts and participants deliberated on evolving legal frameworks, workplace dignity, and institutional responses to emerging challenges affecting women across the country.
The programme concluded with a shared commitment among participating State Women Commissions and NCW to strengthen collaboration, improve institutional mechanisms, and further advance the cause of women’s rights, safety and empowerment nationwide.
