New Delhi: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched Nirbhay Chetna, a nationwide initiative to sensitise more than 17.5 lakh male elected representatives on women’s safety, gender equality and leadership at the grassroots level.
The ministry unveiled the programme during a three-day Training of Trainers workshop held in New Delhi from June 17 to 19. Officials described it as the largest initiative of its kind focused on engaging men in issues related to women’s rights and safety.
The programme operates under the Nirbhaya Fund and aims to strengthen gender-responsive governance in Panchayati Raj Institutions. It will create a nationwide network of trainers to promote awareness and accountability among elected representatives.
Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj Vivek Bharadwaj said the vision of Viksit Bharat cannot be achieved without ensuring women’s safety, dignity and equal participation. He added that Panchayats can drive social change and influence attitudes at the grassroots level.
Additional Secretary Sushil Kumar Lohani stressed that ensuring the safety and dignity of women remains a collective responsibility. He said Panchayats play a crucial role in creating a safer environment for women and girls.
Nirbhay Chetna builds nationwide trainer network
The initiative will develop a cadre of 28,500 master trainers at the state, district and block levels. These trainers will engage male elected representatives on issues related to gender equality, women’s rights and community leadership.
The first batch included around 40 master trainers from Assam, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha and Uttarakhand. Subsequently, the programme will expand to all States and Union Territories.
Participants attended expert sessions, group discussions, case studies and experiential learning exercises. Furthermore, the training focused on positive masculinity, community participation and gender-sensitive leadership.
Nirbhay Chetna forms part of the broader Nirbhay Raho initiative launched in March 2026. The programme includes Nirbhay Netri for elected women representatives and Nirbhay Drishti for technology-based safety measures in rural areas.
Officials said the initiative aims to challenge social stereotypes and encourage male leaders to support women’s safety, empowerment and inclusion within their communities.
The ministry expects the programme to strengthen grassroots governance and promote greater participation of women in local decision-making processes across the country.
