PILANI, March 8th, 2022: Every year, March 8 is celebrated as International Women’s Day with an objective of creating awareness on women’s rights. This year’s theme is “gender equality today for a sustainable tomorrow” with focus on “break the bias”.

An event to create awareness on women’s rights was conducted at Pilani Atmanirbhar Resource Centre (PARC) – a community development initiative of the BITSAA Alumni Trust on March 8th, 2022. Prof. Pushpalata, Department of Humanities, BITS Pilani was the Chief Guest. Dr. V S Nirban, Associate Professor and Faculty In-charge of BITS Public Relations Office, Mrs. R S Rathore, young leader and social transformer, and Mr. Rohitash Rathore, Vice Chairman, Vidyavihar Municipality were also present on the occasion. The programme began with a welcome speech from Dr. Vinod K Dube, Director PARC. Dr. Dube also ran an audio message from Dr. S K Barai, Director BITS Pilani, who mentioned that women’s day should be celebrated every day.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Pushpalata laid emphasis on the importance of being self-reliant. “Swayamshakti sewing centre has not only developed the skill-set of women but has also given them an avenue to generate income and to grow further,” she added. She motivated the women to work hard, be punctual and manage their time in such a manner that their family members start respecting and valuing their contribution. Women have to claim their rights without which an equal world cannot be thought of.

Mrs. R S Rathore focused on breaking the bias prevalent amongst Indian households. While girls are being pressurised to do household chores, boys are encouraged to sit idle and give orders. “It is important to educate boys to be equal players in household chores and girls to be financially independent,” she added.

To add to the glory of the event, Mr. Rohitash Rathore, spoke highly about the role of women in his life, be it his wife, sister, mother, or his colleagues at the municipality. He felt proud that Vidyavihar municipality is being run under the leadership of a woman. While motivating the women participants, Mr. Rathore assured that he will support the women in availing of any scheme that is promoted to encourage women entrepreneurship.

round 35 women from Swayamshakti Centre, a women entrepreneurship programme, attended the function. They felt highly motivated and inspired from the messages given by the guests. The programme ended with a vote of thanks from Dr. Dube.