LEH: In an effort to strengthen awareness of women-centric welfare schemes and support services in remote areas, the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Leh, along with the One Stop Centre (OSC), Leh under Mission Shakti, conducted a four-day awareness programme across 12 villages of the district from June 17 to 20.
The outreach campaign covered Neyrags, Yulchung, Skumpata Yogma, Skumpata Gongma, Lingshed, Photoksar, Machu, Hanupata, Hinju, Ursi, Sumdho Chun and Fanjila, engaging women, children, students and local residents through a series of awareness sessions focused on rights, welfare entitlements and support mechanisms.
Officials informed participants about provisions under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), assistance available through the Women and Child Helpline, and services offered by the One Stop Centre for women facing distress. Information was also disseminated on the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), women empowerment initiatives under Mission Shakti and issues related to menstrual health and hygiene.
A major component of the programme focused on adolescent health and awareness in educational institutions. Special sessions on menstrual health and hygiene were organised in schools at Neyrags, Yulchung, Lingshed and Photoksar, where students were sensitized on menstrual hygiene management, healthy practices and personal hygiene.
Interactive discussions were held to address misconceptions surrounding menstruation, while sanitary pads were distributed among students to encourage hygienic practices and informed health choices.
The campaign also incorporated a PMMVY registration drive aimed at identifying and enrolling eligible beneficiaries in maternal benefit schemes, with officials seeking to improve access to welfare support in geographically remote villages.
The programme witnessed active participation from women, adolescents, students, village representatives and community members. Organisers said the initiative helped extend awareness about women’s rights, government welfare programmes and institutional support services, while promoting social awareness and empowerment at the grassroots level across the region.
