The Role of NGOs in Addressing Gender Discrimination
Women today are in charge in every field. They are decision-makers at the top of many corporations and represent our country in every field. There is no limit to inspiring stories like Manu Bhaker winning the first Paris 2024 Olympics medal for India and becoming the first Indian to win two medals in a single Olympics edition.
However, nurturing these women and their potential takes effort. It is no revelation that women face more hurdles along their journey due to discrimination & bias. These challenges start at a young age, especially for girls from marginalised backgrounds. This is where the government and NGO efforts come into the picture to ensure that girls can enjoy the same rights as their male counterparts. In this article, we will shed light on some of these steps being taken by NGOs and government bodies to eradicate gender discrimination in India.
Key Strategies Used by NGOs to Empower Women
NGOs and the government are working to eradicate gender discrimination in India and create better opportunities for young girls so that they grow up to become strong and independent women. Let us take a closer look at some of the ways they are doing it:
Education and Skill Development
The Government of India has launched various programmes over the years to ensure girls have access to quality education and an inclusive learning environment. Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), the Right to Education Act (RTE), and the National Programme for Education of Girls (NPEGEL) see to it that girls, especially those from marginalised communities, get free and compulsory education.
NGOs such as Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children) have also launched various programmes to provide girls with education and skills to lead a more fulfilling life. Many years ago, they collaborated with the government-run Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) across Rajasthan to advocate for and implement strategies to achieve holistic learning and development of girls. The main focus of this programme was to support girls’ transition from elementary to secondary Schools and inculcate a conducive environment for promoting girl child education in the state.
Healthcare and Reproductive Rights
NGOs ensure that women in rural and underserved areas have access to proper healthcare facilities. For this purpose, they hold vaccination drives, set up health camps and create awareness about women’s reproductive health & well-being.
Legal Aid and Awareness Campaigns
A lot of women who face gender discrimination in India are not aware of their rights and how to go about filing a complaint in case of violations of those rights. There is a certain lack of awareness that these NGOs work to overcome. They set up awareness campaigns in rural and underserved areas and provide women with the necessary legal aid. They also educate young girls about their rights and welfare so that they can lead a happier and more fulfilling life.
Entrepreneurship Support
Some NGOs focus on helping women start their own businesses. They offer microloans, business training, and mentorship to turn women into entrepreneurs. These small businesses provide income for women and boost their confidence and status in their communities. Whether setting up a small shop or starting a home-based business, women are empowered to take control of their economic future.
Each of these strategies helps women stand on their own feet, creating opportunities to help themselves and people in their families and communities.
Summing Up
NGOs are playing a vital role in promoting women’s rights across India. From education and healthcare to legal support and business opportunities, their efforts are helping women overcome the barriers of gender discrimination.
However, NGOs need the support of each and every citizen of the nation to continue their impactful work. They need donations to fund their everyday operations, launch programmes, and reach every corner of the nation to help women and girls in need. You can read more about the donation process and how Save the Children helps young girls and boys in need by visiting their website. Your donation, no matter how small, can help create a brighter future for young girls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of NGOs in women’s rights?
NGOs help protect and promote women’s rights by providing education, healthcare, legal aid, and job opportunities. They support women in becoming independent, fight against gender discrimination, and work to create equal opportunities for women in society.
Which NGO fights for women’s rights in India?
Bal Raksha Bharat supports women’s rights in India by focusing on education, healthcare, and protection for young girls.
How are NGOs helping women in rural areas?
In rural areas, NGOs often focus on setting up healthcare camps, providing reproductive health services, and supporting education for girls. They also help women become financially independent through skill training and microloans for starting small businesses.
How can supporting NGOs lead to gender equality in India?
By supporting NGOs, we help fund their efforts to educate, empower, and protect women. With continued support, these organisations can reach more women, helping create a more equal society where gender biases are minimised.
