Model Answer:
The National Commission for Women (NCW) was established in 1992 as a statutory body to protect and promote the rights of women in India. Its mandate includes addressing issues related to women's rights, empowering women, and ensuring gender equality in various spheres.
The NCW has actively engaged in strategizing against various challenges faced by women in public life, including workplace discrimination, harassment, and violence. For instance, the commission launched the “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” scheme in 2015, aimed at promoting the education and empowerment of girls. According to the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the sex ratio at birth has improved from 918 girls per 1,000 boys in 2015-16 to 919 in 2018-19, indicating a positive impact of such initiatives.
Furthermore, the NCW has been instrumental in advocating for legislative reforms, such as the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The implementation of this law has provided a legal framework for addressing sexual harassment, empowering women to report such incidents without fear of retribution.
In the private sphere, the NCW has focused on issues such as domestic violence, dowry, and property rights. The commission has conducted awareness campaigns to educate women about their rights under the Domestic Violence Act, of 2005. As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), the percentage of women experiencing domestic violence declined from 30% in 2015-16 to 28% in 2019-20, highlighting the impact of NCW's efforts.
Moreover, the NCW has facilitated helplines and counselling services to assist women facing domestic abuse. Initiatives like the "Mahila Police Volunteers" scheme, where trained women police officers provide support, have also contributed to empowering women in distress.
While the NCW has made significant strides in strategizing and addressing the problems women face in both public and private spheres, challenges remain. Issues such as societal attitudes, insufficient enforcement of laws, and limited awareness among women persist. Continuous efforts, greater funding, and collaboration with civil society organizations are essential for the NCW to effectively tackle these challenges and ensure a safer and more equitable environment for women in India.
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