Maharashtra Govt to Kick Off Free Self-defence Training for 3.5 Lakh Female Students

On the occasion of the 350th coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Government of Maharashtra has decided to offer self-defense training to 3.5 female students in the age group of 15 to 25 under the Rajmata Jijau Yuvati Swasamrakshan programme. All schools, colleges and universities in the state are participating in the exercise.

The Women and Child Development Department will conduct this initiative in 350 talukas of the state. Training in the self-defense program will run from July 3 to 15.

Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha said, “There have been many cases where girls and women have become victims of physical assaults. By providing this kind of training, we want to boost their confidence. There is no doubt that citizen security is the concern of the state government and we are looking forward to boosting it further.”

Lodha also reported that in the first three days of the workshop, along with the basics of self-defense, the participants will get training on how to deal with online threats and how to stay safe on digital platforms. This program will also have counseling sessions where experts will help and guide them. Participants who wish to continue with advanced training will be allowed to join the additional 12-day programme.

The Department of Women and Child Development on Wednesday signed memorandums of understanding with NGOs working in this field, such as Vidyarthi Nidhi Trust and Bharatiya Stree Shakti. Expert trainers from these NGOs will travel across 350 talukas to train the 3.5 lakh female students for free.

The Minister also stated that these two organizations will not charge anything for their services. The ministry also plans a dialogue with the state education department to make self-defense training a part of the regular curriculum for female students in schools and colleges.