Punjab: Challenges facing women discussed in conference

Punjab: Centre for Women’s Studies in collaboration with Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) organised a one-day national conference titled Nari Mukti: Ek Ajeya Gatha (NMUS-25) at Gopichand Arya Mahila College, Abohar. Sponsored by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the conference aimed to promote insightful discussions on women empowerment, gender equality and social transformation. The event aimed to address various challenges faced by women in today’s society, as well as provide a platform for academics and experts to share their knowledge. Convener Amandeep Kaur said the conference was dedicated to the memory of late Dev Mitter Ahuja, a renowned social worker whose tireless dedication to the cause of girls’ education and women’s upliftment continues to inspire many even today. Dr Dharmjit Singh Parmar, Vice Chancellor, Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, served as the keynote speaker of the conference. Dr Jaspal Warwal, Associate Professor at Distance Learning Centre, University of Jammu, Dr Tauseef Fatima, Assistant Professor at Centre for Women’s Studies, Aligarh Muslim University, Dr Sandeep Kaur from Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Professor Jap Preet Kaur Bhanghu and Dr Neetu Purohit from DAV College, Bathinda. These experts inaugurated the conference by lighting the traditional lamp along with Chief Guest Rajnish Ahuja, Advisor Charu Ahuja and WSC Director Dr Rekha Sood Handa. During the conference, academics highlighted various important topics related to gender issues. The discussions focused on the emerging nature of patriarchy in the 21st century and its impact on modern society. Experts also deliberated on laws dealing with gender violence and stressed the importance of breaking taboos related to women’s health, sexuality and reproductive rights. The conference also discussed the important role of women in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the impact of microfinance and self-help groups in advancing women’s emancipation. One of the most notable discussions focused on ecofeminism, which examines the relationship between women’s oppression and environmental degradation. It argued that the ideologies that contribute to gender inequality are often the same ones that lead to environmental destruction.