An awareness programme held at Government Tagore College brought focus to women’s welfare schemes, support mechanisms and cyber safety, with officials from the One Stop Centre and the District Hub for Empowerment of Women outlining the services available across the Islands. The session, organised by the Directorate of Social Welfare, aimed at informing students about the institutional systems that address violence, digital threats and legal assistance for women.
The programme centred on creating greater understanding of the One Stop Centre scheme, which functions as an integrated support mechanism for women facing violence in private or public spaces. A Para Legal Lawyer from the Centre explained the structure of the scheme and the range of services it provides, emphasising that support is available under one roof, reducing the need for multiple visits to different departments during distress. Participants were informed that the Centre facilitates medical care, legal guidance, police assistance, psychological support, counselling and temporary shelter for up to five days. These provisions are designed to offer immediate relief and stabilisation for individuals experiencing crisis.
The session also drew attention to the growing importance of cyber safety as more activities, interactions and transactions shift to digital platforms. The resource person highlighted the risks associated with online behaviour, misuse of personal information and the rising incidents of cybercrime affecting young users. The audience was briefed on essential precautions, including responsible handling of personal data, awareness of suspicious links, and the need to report online harassment or financial fraud without delay. To support reporting, the cybercrime helpline number 1930 was shared with participants as the primary contact point for swift assistance.
Further details were provided by the Central Administrator of the One Stop Centre, who reiterated the scheme’s mandate under the Directorate of Social Welfare and outlined the official contact numbers and address for anyone seeking help. Students were encouraged to familiarise themselves with these details so that support can be accessed promptly if needed. The administrator also discussed the functioning of the Women Helpline 181 and the Child Helpline 1098, which operate to address emergencies, counselling requirements or protection-related interventions for women and children.
As part of the awareness efforts, the Call Operator of the Women Helpline briefed the audience on key legal provisions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The explanation included the obligations of institutions, the protections available to minors and the importance of reporting cases promptly for timely action. Participants were reminded that the helplines are active round the clock and can be used by anyone in need of assistance or wanting to report concerns.
The initiative at Government Tagore College is part of the ongoing efforts of the Directorate of Social Welfare and its associated bodies to strengthen awareness at the community level. By engaging students directly, officials aim to build a more informed group of young people who understand the support systems available and the steps required for their own safety. The programme sought to ensure that participants not only gained information for personal use but also became equipped to guide peers who may require assistance.
The organisers highlighted the broader objective of raising legal and digital literacy to reduce vulnerabilities, especially among younger individuals navigating online platforms. The session encouraged attendees to remain alert, make responsible choices and contribute to a safer environment in educational institutions and beyond. With increasing incidents of cyber offences and sustained efforts to improve the reporting ecosystem, the administration continues to push for awareness-based prevention.
The event concluded with participants noting down essential helpline contacts and details of the One Stop Centre, reinforcing the purpose of the session, to ensure that help is accessible, known and utilised when required. With such programmes continuing across different institutions, officials expect wider community awareness and stronger support networks for women and children in the Islands.
