SANDHI by Sakshi focused on digital safety and gender-based violence in its opening panel. Experts discussed the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act and its impact. They explored how technology empowers individuals but can also perpetuate harm.
Mr. Rakesh Kumar, Director NSS, highlighted the role of youth in creating gender-equitable online spaces. He encouraged students to advocate for safer digital environments. Aparajita Bharti, Co-Founder of The Quantum Hub, emphasized the importance of consent and control in digital spaces.
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Ramya Nisal, Director of The Rakshin Project, addressed the cultural roots of online harm. She stressed the need for accountability and systemic change. Panelists agreed that digital governance must protect individuals while maintaining access to technology.
Empowering Grassroots Leadership for Gender Equity
The second panel at SANDHI by Sakshi explored community-driven capacity-building strategies. Experts discussed the importance of localizing gender sensitization programs.
Dr. Monika B, Deputy Secretary, NRLM, emphasized the role of self-help groups (SHGs) in fostering leadership and advocacy. Panelists highlighted that one-size-fits-all solutions are ineffective in rural areas. Instead, gender-sensitive training programs should be culturally relevant.
Speakers like Suhela Khan from UN Women and Abhiir Bhalla, a youth environmentalist, shared innovative approaches. They stressed empowering grassroots organizations with knowledge and tools to dismantle gender discrimination.
Strengthening Gender Equity at the Grassroots Level
The third panel focused on governance and gender-based violence at the grassroots level. Vivek Bharadwaj IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, emphasized the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in gender-sensitive governance.
Panelists, including Mohd. Asif from Plan International and Mitali Nikore from Nikore Associates, discussed barriers to justice. They highlighted the importance of financial independence in ensuring women’s autonomy.
The discussion underscored the need for multi-sectoral collaboration. Experts called for partnerships between government agencies, civil society organizations, and corporate stakeholders. This holistic approach ensures effective gender equity initiatives.
Economic Impact of Gender-Based Violence
The conference also featured a presentation by Ms. Manisha Majumdar from IDH. She shared findings from a study on gender-based violence in the tea sector.
The research demonstrated the economic costs of GBV and the business benefits of investing in prevention programs. It emphasized that gender equity is not just a social issue but also an economic necessity.
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A Multi-Sensory Experience for Change
Apart from discussions, SANDHI by Sakshi featured interactive activities and performance pieces. These immersive experiences reinforced storytelling’s power in activism.
By combining policy discussions with creative engagement, the conference successfully fostered action-driven solutions for gender equity.
