A Walk Through the Centre

Before the session, I was taken on a walk through the centre. It was heartening to witness the diligent record-keeping ensuring the maintenance of cleanliness—a crucial aspect, considering the community it serves does not have toilets at home. These spaces are more than just sanitation facilities; they offer a safe environment, encourage hygiene, and even provide areas for breastfeeding mothers.

With the available open space, the centre has expanded to offer digital literacy, stitching, and beauty courses for the women of the Jahangirpuri and Naraina communities. This initiative not only empowers women economically but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility within the community.

The Power of One now Sahas Bharat Read More here>>

The #LetsTalkPeriod Session

The session welcomed 30 incredible women from across Delhi—all of them managing these public toilets turned safe spaces. Over 90 minutes, we dived deep into menstrual health, aiming to educate, dispel myths, and introduce sustainable solutions. Using presentations, videos, and a silicone reproductive model, we discussed:

• The anatomy of menstruation – understanding flow, cycles, and the natural processes of the body.
• Common menstrual ailments and remedies – equipping them with knowledge to manage their health better.
• Myth-busting and cultural alignment – referencing temples, cultural events, and festivals across India that celebrate menstruation, reaffirming its sacredness.
• Introduction to the menstrual cup – explaining its benefits, usage, and maintenance as a sustainable alternative to pads and tampons.

Each participant was gifted a menstrual cup, making them ambassadors of sustainable menstruation in their communities. The enthusiasm was overwhelming, with the women eager to take this knowledge forward and advocate for better menstrual health in their circles.

A Ripple Effect of Change

The feedback was deeply moving. One of the women said, “Thank you for gifting us life.” Many of them are first-time earners, and their confidence is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and economic independence. I was told that the centre sees a daily footfall of 500 women and children, making it a crucial hub for driving change at the grassroots level.

As we posed in front of the toilet—something one wouldn’t traditionally think of as a celebratory moment—it struck me how spaces evolve when they are filled with purpose, dignity, and empowerment.

Looking Ahead

This is just the beginning. With 30 women now equipped with knowledge and sustainable solutions, the impact will extend far beyond this single session. The commitment to menstrual health, sustainability, and community-driven change continues, and I am grateful to be part of this journey.

To all the changemakers—thank you. Let’s keep the conversation going.

About the Session Conductor – Simply Suparnaa

This session was conducted by Simply Suparnaa, a passionate advocate for gender sensitivity, sustainable menstrual hygiene, and social impact. She is the founder of the #LetsTalkPeriod movement, working to normalize conversations around menstrual health and empower communities with sustainable solutions.

Beyond menstrual health advocacy, she is also the founder-curator of SABERA (Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards & Summit), which recognizes impactful social and business initiatives across India. With over two decades of experience in media, advertising, and cause-driven initiatives, she continues to drive awareness and action towards women’s health, sanitation, and community empowerment.

The post #Let’sTalkPeriod: A Session on Sustainable Menstrual Hygiene at Garima Grih appeared first on Woman Endangered.

At SABERA 2024, where changemakers were celebrated for their impact on society, a mesmerizing Bharatanatyam performance titled “He4She” captivated the audience. The performance symbolized the harmony of masculine and feminine energies, exploring themes of inclusion and balance deeply rooted in India’s cultural wisdom.

Performed by the talented duo Bhadra Sinha and Gayathri Sharma, He4She was choreographed exclusively for the event, blending classical storytelling with a contemporary call for unity and equality. Through their art, the performers brought to life three powerful excerpts from ancient scriptures, each illustrating the interplay of Shiv and Shakti and the timeless relevance of their divine union.

Three Stories of Balance and Inclusion

1. Shakti’s Ferocity Calmed by Shiva

The first segment portrayed the fierce battle between Shakti and the demon Mahishasur, a testament to the unyielding strength of feminine power. Overcome by her rage after slaying the demon, Shakti’s fury threatened to disrupt universal harmony.

It was Shiva who intervened, lying before her to pacify her wrath. In a moment of profound connection, Shakti placed her foot on Shiva, calming herself and restoring balance. This powerful story emphasizes the importance of mutual support between energies, highlighting the need for equilibrium in both personal and societal realms.

2. Shakti Soothing Shiva’s Anger

The second excerpt explores the tale of Shiva’s rage when Kamadeva, the god of desire, interrupts his meditation. Enraged, Shiva destroys Kamadeva, leaving his consort, Rati, in despair. Shakti intervenes, embodying compassion and wisdom, to pacify Shiva’s anger and offer solace to Rati.

This story demonstrated the strength of nurturing energies and the power of feminine wisdom to restore harmony. The performers brought this moment to life through expressive movements, reminding the audience of the importance of compassion in navigating conflict and rebuilding connections.

3. The Unity of Ardhanarishwar

The final segment showcased Ardhanarishwar, the divine form that unites Shiva and Shakti in a single body, symbolizing the inseparability of masculine and feminine energies. This form transcends duality, celebrating diversity and inclusion as fundamental to universal harmony.

The duo’s choreography reflected the essence of this union, with movements that blended strength and grace, individuality and togetherness. The segment was a powerful representation of He4She’s central message: the beauty of coexistence and equality in all forms.

The Performers: A Fusion of Professional and Artistic Excellence

Bhadra Sinha, a journalist, and Gayathri Sharma, a communication leader at Rolls Royce India & APAC, infused their performance with passion and purpose. Their dual roles as accomplished professionals and dedicated artists made their contribution to SABERA 2024 even more inspiring.

Gayathri also served as the pre-screener for the awards this year, her involvement extended beyond the stage, reflecting her commitment to promoting inclusion and unity through multiple avenues.

Their performance, steeped in classical artistry, was a testament to the transformative power of cultural storytelling.

A Celebration of Balance and Harmony

The He4She performance was more than an artistic showcase—it was a profound reminder of the relevance of ancient wisdom in modern contexts. Through the lens of dance, the performance highlighted themes of balance, inclusion, and unity, aligning perfectly with SABERA’s mission to honor initiatives that drive positive change.

As the audience erupted in applause, it was clear that He4She had resonated deeply, reminding everyone present of the enduring importance of embracing harmony in all aspects of life.

For more inspiring stories from SABERA 2024 and beyond, stay connected with WomenEndangered.org. Together, let us celebrate the art, courage, and wisdom that inspire change and foster inclusion.

They were acknowledged for the performance by IPS Chhaya Sharma, the lady cop who brought Nirbhaya Justice. Madam Chhay was also the guest of Honour

Contact us for more information and to apply for the SABERA awards.

For Membership, Sponsorship or Speaking Opportunities write to suparnaa@simplysupanaa.com

To submit your SDG-aligned campaigns for the SABERA jury to evaluate, Register here. 

The post He4She Performance at SABERA 2024 appeared first on Woman Endangered.

On September 21, 2024, I had the privilege of conducting a transformative workshop at VIT Pune, aimed at combating violence against women. This session marked my second interaction with the talented second-year BTech students at this esteemed institution. My first visit in 2022, as part of an impactful initiative, rolled out in collaboration with JOSH TALKS and their client TVS, involved engaging engineering students across twelve states in India on this crucial topic.

Read about the in-person workshops with VIT Pune

Understanding Gender-Based Violence

At the core of this workshop was a comprehensive understanding of what gender-based violence entails. Participants delved into its various forms, recognized the phases of life where such violence can occur, and discussed effective prevention strategies. We highlighted the importance of understanding these elements and taking action to eradicate this grave societal issue and ensure justice for victims.

A key highlight of the session was the inclusion of insights from IPS Chhaya Sharma, the head of the Special Unit for Women and Child in the Delhi Police. Her instrumental role in cracking the infamous Nirbhaya case provided the students with a real-world perspective on the urgency and complexity of addressing violence against women.

Read more here यौन उत्पीड़न के मामले में क्या करना है – What to do in case of Rape ?

Insights from the Pre-Workshop Survey

Before the workshop, we surveyed 36 participating students to gauge their knowledge of gender-based violence. The results were revealing:

• Over half of the respondents (19 out of 36) believed that at least one in every three women faces some form of violence in their lifetime.
• About half of the respondents (14) thought that only two out of ten victims ever seek justice.
• A similar number (13 respondents) felt that violence against women begins in infancy.

These statistics underscore the pervasive nature of violence and the critical need for ongoing education and awareness on this issue.

A Platform for Inquiry and Inspiration

The hour-long workshop encouraged an open and engaging dialogue among the students, regardless of gender. Their eagerness to ask questions demonstrated a shared commitment to understanding and combating violence against women. Many expressed the need for continued discussions and workshops, highlighting the importance of integrating these conversations into educational settings.

Meet the Facilitator

The session was led by Suparnaa Chadda, widely known as Simply Suparnaa, the founder of the Simply Suparnaa Media Network. A notable UN Women Awardee, Suparnaa has dedicated her career to advocating for women’s rights and empowering communities through education and awareness. Her passion and expertise were pivotal in guiding the workshop, inspiring countless students to become advocates for change. Suparnaa also acknowledges SDG-aligned initiatives through the annual SABERA Awards which includes लैंगिक समानता (Gender Diversity & Inclusion).

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As we concluded the workshop, it became clear that knowledge and awareness are the first steps toward making a tangible impact in the fight against violence against women. By instilling these values in young minds, we can foster a generation of leaders who are committed to creating safer environments for all.

This workshop not only educated students but also equipped them with the tools to inspire change in their communities. It’s time to turn awareness into action! For hosting a workshop with your university students write to womanendangered@gmail.com or suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com

The post Breaking the Silence: Empowering Students to Combat Gender based Violence Against Women appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Recently, I had the privilege of meeting with Special Commissioner Chhaya Sharma at the Delhi Police Headquarters. Our discussion centered on the progressive provisions recently enacted by the Indian Parliament in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), formerly known as the Indian Penal Code (IPC). These changes mark a significant step forward in protecting women and children and ensuring swifter justice.

Ms. Sharma’s dedication to this cause was truly inspiring. Her instrumental role in securing justice in the Nirbhaya case reflects the national commitment to improved legal safeguards.

Watch the interaction with IPS Chhaya Sharama sharing a step-by-step guide to justice in Heinous crimes like Rape

A New Dawn for Women and Children

The BNS now dedicates a separate chapter to offenses against women and children, consolidating provisions previously scattered throughout the penal code. This shift signifies the heightened importance placed on their safety and well-being, a point Ms. Sharma emphasized during our conversation.

Key Provisions for Enhanced Protection:

• Clause 70 (Gang Rape of Minors): This clause mandates life imprisonment or the death penalty for the gang rape of a minor, demonstrating zero tolerance for such heinous crimes.
• Clause 69 (Sexual Deception): A new provision criminalizes sexual intercourse by deception or false promise of marriage, regardless of the perpetrator’s gender (man, woman, or transgender), with imprisonment of up to 10 years and a possible fine.
• Stronger Penalties for Exploitation: The BNS strengthens penalties for exploiting and trafficking women and children.

Expedited Justice:

The new laws prioritize faster resolution of heinous crimes like rape by mandating timelines. Victims are no longer required to appear in person for court proceedings, with audio-video electronic means available for examinations, which Ms. Sharma highlighted as crucial for victim protection.

Improved Accessibility and Investigation:

• Zero FIR: The BNS statutorily recognizes Zero FIRs, allowing victims to report crimes at any police station regardless of the location of the offense.
• E-FIR for Women: Women can now file an E-FIR (electronic FIR), ensuring registration within 3 days of receiving the complaint.
• Mandatory Forensic Investigations: Forensic investigations are mandatory for heinous crimes.
• Digital Evidence Admissibility: The BNS emphasizes the importance of digital evidence, making it admissible, especially in cases like matrimonial disputes where traditional proof might be scarce.

These progressive provisions represent a crucial step towards a safer and more just India for women and children. With dedicated law enforcement personnel like Ms. Sharma and improved legal processes, the BNS empowers victims and paves the way for a more secure future.

Empowering Women: Insights from IPS Chhaya Sharma at SABERA

The post Stronger Protections for Women & Children: What’s New in India’s BNS? appeared first on Woman Endangered.

1) Ruma Roka – Noida Deaf Society

Ruma Roka is a force of nature, changing the lives of deaf children who are often severely marginalized. Her journey began with just five students, but through the Noida Deaf Society, she has impacted over 54,000 lives to date. Remarkably, over 70% of her trainers and managers are deaf themselves. Ruma introduced computer literacy using Indian Sign Language, enabling the youth to secure successful employment across various sectors. To support Ruma’s mission and learn more about her work, visit www.noidadeafsociety.org

2) Robin Chaurasiya – Kranti

Robin Chaurasiya is the founder of Kranti, a nonprofit organization working with girls born and raised in Kamathipura, Asia’s infamous red-light district. Kranti’s beneficiaries include daughters of sex workers, trafficking survivors, and young women with immense potential. Thanks to Robin’s efforts, these ‘Krantikaris’ are now studying at some of the world’s best universities. However, the question remains: can our communities truly accept them for who they are? To support Kranti, visit https://www.kranti-india.org/

3) Sunita Bhasin – SSMI

Sunita Bhasin is a dedicated educationist, environmentalist, and advocate for reviving indigenous handicrafts. She works tirelessly to create sustainable livelihood models for marginalized women in Delhi. Sunita’s commitment to empowering women was evident during a menstrual hygiene session she conducted with girls entering puberty. To connect or contribute to SSMI, visit ssmi.in or www.room100-ssmi.com.

4) Dr. Kiran Modi – Udayan Care

Dr. Kiran Modi’s journey started with a single house in Delhi, ignited by a personal tragedy. Today, through Udayan Care, she has rehabilitated and empowered countless children whom society often neglects. Udayan Care provides education and vocational training, nurturing young individuals not only in material needs but also in emotional well-being. If you wish to support, volunteer, or align with Udayan Care’s vision, please visit https://udayancare.org/

5) Monica Vohra – Leukemia Crusaders

Monica Vohra, a SABERA Awardee, fought and won her son’s battle with leukemia. Now, she’s on a crusade to ensure underprivileged kids receive timely and effective treatment for blood cancer. To support Monica and Leukemia Crusaders, click here: https://www.leukemiacrusaders.org/

6) Ruby Ahluwalia – Sanjeevani – Life Beyond Cancer

From survivor to messiah for cancer patients and their families, Ruby Ahluwalia’s life took a profound turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. She has since dedicated her life to helping marginalized families afflicted with the disease, offering counseling, nutrition, and unwavering support throughout their journey. Contribute to their work through the link below: https://www.sanjeevani-lifebeyondcancer.com

7) Rachna Prasad – Chiranthana

SABERA Awardee Rachna Prasad has dedicated her life to rehabilitating, educating, and creating employment opportunities for individuals with special needs, including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, and dyslexia. Rachna’s journey began after her own daughter was diagnosed with special needs. To know more and support Chiranthana, log in here: https://chiranthana.in/shop/

These extraordinary women, honored with the SABERA Awards, are making significant strides in creating a better and more inclusive world. Their dedication, passion, and resilience serve as an inspiration to us all. By supporting their missions and spreading awareness about their work, we can join hands in making a lasting impact and creating a brighter future for those in need.

The post Celebrating Women of Impact: SABERA Awardees Transforming Lives appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Location: Sathya Sai Grama, Muddenahalli, Karnataka, India

The Leadership Conclave held at Sathya Sai Grama in Muddenahalli, Karnataka, was an awe-inspiring event that brought together leaders and visionaries from over 40 countries. The conclave centered around the theme of “Nurturing a Values-Based Leadership Approach,” with 5 sessions. I had the honor to chair the session on women and ethics in leadership. The esteemed panelists, Dr. Kiranmai Pendyala, Ms. Prerana Langa, Ms. Kristin Engvig, and Dr. Snehal Donde, shared their insights and experiences, offering a diverse range of perspectives on this crucial topic.

As the session chair, it was my privilege to open the discussion by highlighting the significance of ethics, and women, and drawing inspiration from spiritual guidance to demonstrate courage amidst challenges. I emphasized the importance of walking the talk, even in the face of adversity. By setting an example and embracing ethical principles, leaders can inspire others and create sustainable, inclusive organizations that nurture women for leadership roles.

Dr. Kiranmai Pendyala, Corporate VP of HR at UPS India Technology Center, brought forth her invaluable learnings on fostering sustainable and inclusive organizations. She emphasized the need to nurture an environment where women are empowered to take on leadership roles. By providing equal opportunities, mentorship, and support, organizations can harness the immense potential of women leaders and pave the way for a brighter future.

Dr. Snehal Donde, a Fulbright Scholar and Dean of Administration at Bhaktivedanta Research Centre, highlighted the importance of environmental mindfulness. She spoke passionately about rejuvenating water bodies and creating a sustainable future. By recognizing and minimizing the environmental impacts of our actions, leaders can contribute to the well-being of the planet and future generations.

Ms. Prerana Langa, the Chief Executive Officer of Aga Khan Agency for Habitat, shared her insights on instilling values within organizations to motivate people to do good. She emphasized that when organizations prioritize values and ethics, it creates a positive and uplifting work culture that encourages employees to make a meaningful difference in their communities. By aligning their actions with their values, leaders can inspire their teams to embrace a higher purpose.

Ms. Kristin Engvig, the Founder and President of WIN ‘Inspiring Women Worldwide’ from Switzerland, brought Nordic wisdom to the conclave. She emphasized the importance of balancing both masculine and feminine energies in leadership. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting inclusive decision-making, leaders can create a harmonious environment that fosters creativity, empathy, and collaboration.

The Leadership Conclave at Sathya Sai Grama was a testament to the power of values-based leadership. It provided a platform for leaders from various countries and backgrounds to come together and exchange ideas on nurturing ethical leadership and empowering women. The conclave showcased the significance of spirituality, environmental consciousness, and values in shaping effective leadership.

Organized by Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, the conclave served as a catalyst for change, inspiring leaders to embrace a values-driven approach in their organizations and communities. By nurturing ethical leaders who lead by example, we can create a better world that promotes equality, inclusivity, and sustainable development.

The conclave left a lasting impact on its attendees, sparking meaningful conversations, and providing a roadmap for creating a values-based leadership approach. As we reflect on the insightful discussions and learnings shared during the conclave, let us continue to champion ethics, empower women, and strive for a leadership style that embodies compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to the greater good.

The post Nurturing a Values-Based Leadership Approach: Women and Ethics in Leadership appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Women turn brand ambassadors of sustainable menstrual products taking the multi-billion dollar industry of disposables head on.

Listen to various stakeholders from the social venture investors, nonprofit sector, social entrepreneurs, and medical fraternity join hands in the spirit of collaboration debunking misinformation and talking of facts and personal experiences on sustainable menstruation in particular and Periods at large! Busting misinformation in pursuit of Ms information 🙂

The Simply Suparnaa © Media Network recently hosted an insightful panel discussion on the topic of sustainable menstrual products and their impact on the billion-dollar industry dominated by disposable products. The panelists, who brought a wealth of experience and expertise, shared their insights and experiences on the subject.

Dr. Meenakshi Bharat, a gynecologist with 35 years of experience specializing in fertility work, has made it her mission to advocate for sustainable living. In addition to her medical practice, she actively promotes waste reduction, composting, and the use of reusable products. Dr. Bharat’s commitment to sustainability even extends to organizing waste-free weddings for her children. Her valuable insights on the health benefits of sustainable menstrual products added great value to the discussion.

Sashi Rajamani, a founding member of Social Venture Partners in Bengaluru, brought two decades of corporate experience to her work in promoting social impact ventures and foundations. As the managing trustee of the Konrai Foundation, Rajamani collaborates with over 20 NGOs, striving to create a platform for promoting performing arts while addressing social and environmental challenges, including sustainable menstruation.

Dr Shanthi Thummala, initially trained as a dentist, took a bold step by leaving her job to lead the Swachh Siddipet campaign in collaboration with the Telangana government. Her expertise in waste management proved invaluable in streamlining waste segregation, collection, transportation, and disposal. Driven by her passion for environmental conservation, Dr. Thummala also spearheaded the sustainable menstruation campaign, aiming to address the environmental damage caused by sanitary waste in Siddipet.

Malini Parmar, with a strong background in the global IT industry and an education from prestigious institutions such as IIM-Kolkata and Delhi College of Engineering, decided to leverage her experience for social change. Co-founding Stonesoup, a social enterprise dedicated to sustainable living, Parmar offers a range of products that contribute to a greener future. As a single parent and advocate for sustainable menstruation, Parmar shared her personal experiences and insights during the panel discussion.

The panelists brought diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, creating a dynamic discussion that touched upon the health benefits of sustainable menstrual products, the environmental impact of disposable alternatives, and the empowerment of women as brand ambassadors for sustainable options. By challenging the status quo, these panelists are leading the way toward a future where women’s health and the well-being of the planet are prioritized.

You will also love reading about my experience with gifting cloth pads to girls with hearing impairment in Noida.

Psst : If you’re doing GOOD the SABERA jury is looking for your work to acknowledge you.

The post 17 K Crore industry of disposables- Do sustainable menstrual products stand a chance? appeared first on Woman Endangered.

As an added bonus WE are offering a GIVE AWAY on a medical-grade silicone menstrual cup to 2 individuals who share their views on periods on Simply Suparnaa’s Instagram. The GIVE AWAY is in collaboration with Stonesoup.in Why are WE doing this? Keep reading

Challenging Misinformation

Despite advancements in urban settings, misinformation about feminine hygiene products still prevails. Commercial pads and tampons, often laden with plastics and chemicals, pose risks to both our bodies and the planet. It’s time to dispel these myths and explore better alternatives.

The Wisdom of Tradition

In India, where cotton is abundant, we have a rich heritage of using cotton sarees to manage menstruation. This age-old practice not only ensures comfort but also aligns with sustainability. Cotton sarees can be easily disposed of and naturally decompose over time, minimizing environmental impact.

Prioritizing Women’s Health

Just as we choose organic, chemical-free foods for our well-being, it’s crucial to extend the same principle to feminine hygiene. Commercial sanitary pads and tampons can introduce harmful substances into our bodies. Tampons, in particular, have been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome. By opting for natural and organic options, we can safeguard our health.

Breaking the Stigma

Periods have long been shrouded in silence and shame. It’s time to change that. Let’s foster open conversations about menstrual health, eradicating taboos, and empowering women to embrace their bodies fully. By talking openly about periods, we can create a supportive environment that encourages education and understanding.

Social Media Giveaway

To further promote open discussions on periods, we are excited to announce a social media giveaway! Share your views and experiences on periods using the hashtag #LetsTalkPeriod, and you could win a medical-grade silicone cup—a sustainable and comfortable alternative for menstrual care. Join the movement and help us spread awareness.

Instastories

maanasadevi12
It’s part of every woman’s life. Proper care and personal hygiene are very important during those days. Young girls they should have awareness about their first period ie what are periods what we do during periods why we get periods and how to face them. Mainly teenage girls must know and have awareness because when they see the first period they get shocked and fearful because it’s blood and the girl feels very weak. How to take proper care during periods also needs to be known some classes should be taken. girls and women should know some home remedies, period care essentials like menstrual cups, and how to handle cramps. And family mother, father, sis or bro, boyfriend or husband should be supportive not treating them like untouchables. Boys mothers should also teach boys what are periods and what females grow through during that time so that boys can understand that pain and support them rather than seeing it as something unknown.

riospamzzzz

Back in school, a guy in my class pulled out a sanitary napkin from a friend’s bag. He stood on the desk holding it high up for everyone to see. He went on shouting “XXX is on her period!! xxx is on her period” and threw it on someone.
Everyone went from yewww to yuckk, running away as if it was an asteroid.
When we girls felt deeply hurt and embarrassed, the girl who was on her period spoke loud and clear.
Yes, I am on my period. So was your mother and so is your sister. If not for it, you wouldn’t be here. If you have a problem with it, then you probably are mentally sick. Get yourself checked.
The class learned a lesson. It’s not the period that’s disgusting, but the person who feels that way.

Keep sharing your views and stand a chance to win the medical-grade silicone cups from Stonesoup. Winners will be announced on 23rd May 2023.

WE are passionate about debunking misinformation, promoting sustainable menstrual practices, and empowering women to make informed choices. By embracing traditional wisdom, advocating for chemical-free options, and encouraging open conversations, we can create a healthier and more sustainable future. Let’s break the silence, #LetsTalkPeriod!

The post Let’s Talk Period: Empowering Women through Sustainable Menstrual Practices appeared first on Woman Endangered.

SHO Tomar shares that there are 2 main reasons for any cybercrime – Greed and Fear.

Sexual Harassment of girls and Financial cheating embroiled through emotional traps for older women top the charts for cyber crime against women!

The podcast is a valuable resource for women who may be vulnerable to cybercrime and are unsure of what to do if they fall victim to it. SHO Pawan Tomar provides detailed information on how to report cybercrime, including the types of evidence that may be needed and the different agencies that can be contacted for assistance.

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8th to honor the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women all over the world. This year’s theme is “DigitALL: Technology & Innovation for Gender Equality.” The theme highlights the importance of leveraging technology and innovation to promote gender equality and empower women in all aspects of life.

In today’s digital world, women face unique challenges and risks online. Cybercrime against women is a growing problem in India. According to a report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), cybercrime against women increased by 50% in 2019 compared to the previous year. According to SHO Tomar, 90% of social media crimes are targeted at women. The two main offenses are cyber stalking of younger girls and financial cheating of older women.

Cyberstalking is a form of online harassment where the perpetrator repeatedly sends unwanted messages or follows the victim on social media platforms or other online spaces. Younger girls are particularly vulnerable to cyberstalking, with many cases involving perpetrators who are known to them. Infact in most cases, the victims may have been in a relationship with the perpetrator and as revenge for the relationship gone sour, the boys may also threaten or leak some intimate videos or photos to harass or blackmail the girl. This type of cybercrime can have a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of victims.

On the other hand, financial cheating is a type of cybercrime that targets older women who may be less tech-savvy and more trusting of strangers. Perpetrators use online platforms to establish relationships with victims and gain their trust before asking for money or access to their financial accounts. This type of cybercrime can lead to significant financial losses for victims besides the emotional trauma that they experience.

To address these issues, it is essential to promote digital literacy among women and girls, particularly in vulnerable communities. Education and training on safe online behavior can help women protect themselves from cybercrime and make informed decisions about their online activities. Additionally, there is a need to strengthen laws and policies to better protect women from online harassment and abuse.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2023, let us renew our commitment to promoting gender equality in all aspects of life, including the digital sphere. By harnessing the power of technology and innovation, we can create a world where women and girls can thrive and reach their full potential.

The post DigitALL I Online safe spaces I Women’s Day appeared first on Woman Endangered.

Last year, I reached out to Ruma Roka, who has been a SABERA awardee, to discuss the idea of the #LetsTalkPeriod session at the Noida Deaf Society. It would require a sign language interpreter to communicate the session to the girls and their mothers, who would also be invited to the 90-minute workshop followed by hot samosas and a soft drink.

On the 25th day of January 2023, WE conducted our very first session with a classroom of girls with hearing impairment along with some of their mothers. The girls were interactive from the word go and had lots of questions, observations, and comments. It was heartening to see that they weren’t shy to express their views on Periods or Menstrual hygiene! Maybe their inability to hear has cocooned them of the social constructs and taboos!

Their openness and confidence definitely reflected the safe space that the Noida Deaf Society and its teachers provide for them to help them live well-rounded life despite their disabilities. I was apprised of some horror stories of how deaf girls are extremely vulnerable and can be subject to exploitation by their own teachers. Being visually able, young deaf girls like all other teenagers, like to dress up and look good. There have been cases where the teachers have exploited them sexually, in the lure of a dress or jeans, the heinous acts being hidden in the girls’ inability to speak up for themselves.

We gifted the girls, 20 LAADLI Kits(containing 5 cloth pads, 2 jackets, and I small purse ) that were received pro bono from Stonesoup trust. The girls were also taught how to use, wash, dry, and store them.

The feedback from the girls post the session was humbling and I am grateful for this opportunity.

Karishma was the Indian sign Language interpreter. The only request I had to heed was to go slow. On average, an interpreter is required to take a break after 60 minutes but Karishma was just as passionate about it.

We wrapped the session, as usual with some yog asanas and simple home remedies to address irregularities through periods including cramps, body aches, and rash but the most important factor is to reinforce a positive association with this natural regular cycle that mother nature has bestowed on us to sustain the universe. This also helps allay a lot of these symptoms when we look forward to the periodic cycle.

Incase, you would like us to conduct this workshop in your institute or organization, do write to us at womanendangered@gmail.com or suparnaa@simplysuparnaa.com

You can also contribute here to help us reach out to more girls and women with the #LetsTalkPeriod session and to gift a sustainable menstrual hygiene solution of a menstrual cup or cloth pad.

The post Menstrual hygiene session I Girls with hearing impairment appeared first on Woman Endangered.