Chandigarh, 17 June (H.S.): Vijaya Kishore

Rahatkar, Chairperson, National Commission for Women (NCW), today paid a

courtesy call on Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory Chandigarh,

Gulab Chand Kataria, at Punjab Lok Bhavan, Chandigarh.

During the meeting, the two dignitaries exchanged views on

issues concerning women's welfare, empowerment and safety. Special emphasis was

laid on the growing challenge of substance abuse among girls and women and the

need for focused interventions to address this emerging social concern.

They discussed the importance of strengthening awareness

campaigns, preventive measures, counselling services and rehabilitation

facilities for girls and women affected by drug addiction. The need for a

coordinated approach involving government agencies, educational institutions,

civil society organizations and community stakeholders to support

rehabilitation and social reintegration was also highlighted.

The role of mothers and women within families in preventing

drug abuse was also deliberated upon. It was emphasized that mothers are often

the first to notice behavioural changes in children and can play a pivotal role

in early intervention, guidance and creating a supportive family environment

that discourages substance abuse. The importance of empowering mothers through

awareness and community engagement initiatives was underscored as an effective

strategy in the fight against drugs.

Shri Kataria appreciated the initiatives being undertaken by

the National Commission for Women for safeguarding the rights of women and

promoting gender equality across the country. He emphasized that protecting

young girls and women from the menace of drug abuse and ensuring effective

rehabilitation support must remain a key priority, while recognizing the crucial

role of mothers as agents of social change in building a drug-free society.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH