Women critical partners in growth, development: Advisor Bhatnagar

Srinagar, June 05: The two-day international conference on ‘Gender Sensitization: Rights, Policies and Issues’ organized by Cluster University Srinagar commenced at Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar on Monday.
The two-day international conference on ‘Gender Sensitization: Rights, Policies, and Issues.’ Organized in collaboration with the Human Welfare Voluntary Organisation and J&K Bank, the conference aims to shed light on various aspects of gender sensitivity and its impact on achieving gender equality.
The inaugural event witnessed the presence of Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to LG, as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized India’s commitment to inclusive growth and development, with a focus on women’s empowerment and representation. While addressing on the occasion, said that this International Conference is part of ongoing G-20 events being held across the country. He mentioned about recent conduct of successful G-20 Tourism Working Group meet in Srinagar which gave the message to the world regarding hope, harmony, peace and stability prevailing in J&K. He added that with success of ongoing G-20 events in the country, India is marching forward and claiming its place in global order.
Bhatnagar highlighted India’s progress in promoting gender equality, citing the improved Gender Inequality Index score. He also mentioned several major initiatives by the central government, such as the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign, ‘Mahila Shakti Kendra’ program, ‘Working Women Hostel’ initiative, and ‘Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana,’ aimed at reducing the gender gap and empowering women.
The Advisor commended the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir government in creating a gender-inclusive ecosystem, enabling better education opportunities for women and their active participation in economic growth. He mentioned the successful initiatives, including supporting young women entrepreneurs at the Panchayat level and empowering women through the Jammu and Kashmir State Rural Livelihoods Mission.
The Vice-Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Qayyum Husain, highlighted the aim of the conference to explore experiences and research from policymakers, academicians, and scholars in identifying indigenous strategies for gender sensitization and equality. He acknowledged that the root cause of gender discrimination lies in the prevailing patriarchal mindset in society, emphasizing the need for a permanent change.
Distinguished speakers, including Prof. Ritu Gairola Khanduri from the University of Texas and Prof. Vijay Lakshmi Brara from the Royal Global University, addressed various aspects of gender diversity, sensitization, and the need to shift the discourse on gender.
The conference will cover key themes such as ‘Gender Equity and Gender Construct,’ ‘Gender Sensitization: Challenges and Policy Options,’ ‘Gender Issues and Socio-psychological Aspects of Gender Inequality,’ and ‘Gender and Development: Implementation & Challenges.’
The Principal of the host college, Prof. (Dr.) Ruhi Jan Kanth, highlighted the relevance of the conference theme in contemporary times, addressing concerns related to identity crises and gender stereotyping.
Overall, the international conference on gender sensitization serves as a platform to engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and develop strategies to address gender-related challenges and promote gender equality in society.