TAG: GS 1: SOCIAL ISSUES
THE CONTEXT: In a significant move towards ensuring the safety and security of women in workplaces, the Union Minister of Women and Child Development, launched the SHe-Box portal in New Delhi.
EXPLANATION:
- This initiative, aimed at addressing and deterring sexual harassment at the workplace, marks a major advancement in the government’s efforts to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women.
SHe-Box Portal
- The SHe-Box (Sexual Harassment electronic-Box) portal serves as a centralized platform designed specifically for registering and monitoring complaints of sexual harassment faced by women in workplaces.
- It offers a unified system for both government and private sectors to file complaints, track their progress, and ensure timely resolution.
- By integrating information from Internal Committees (ICs) and Local Committees (LCs) established across the country, the portal streamlines the process of addressing grievances related to workplace sexual harassment.
- The SHe-Box portal includes features for real-time monitoring of complaints through a designated nodal officer.
- This ensures that every complaint is tracked and addressed promptly, providing women with a secure and reliable channel to seek redressal.
- The portal’s design focuses on safeguarding the confidentiality of complainants, ensuring that personal information is not publicly accessible, which encourages more women to come forward without fear of exposure or retaliation.
The Broader Vision of Women-Led Development
- Commitment to “Viksit Bharat” by 2047
- As India moves towards its centenary in the next 25 years, the government is focused on achieving the vision of “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.
- Central to this vision is the recognition of the crucial role women play in driving inclusive economic growth.
- Over the past decade, there has been a concerted effort to emphasize women-led development, with the understanding that empowering women is essential to the country’s overall progress.
- Enhancing Women’s Participation in the Workforce
- Ensuring the safety and security of women in the workplace is a fundamental aspect of enhancing their participation in the workforce.
- The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act of 2013 laid the groundwork for protecting women from sexual harassment and addressing their grievances.
- The introduction of the SHe-Box portal represents a significant step in reinforcing these protections, making it easier for women to report harassment and seek justice.
Launch of the New Ministry Website
- In addition to the SHe-Box portal, the Ministry of Women and Child Development also unveiled a newly developed website.
- This website is designed to align with the needs of the Government of India, aiming to create a cohesive visual identity across digital platforms.
- By enhancing the government’s digital presence, the new website aims to improve engagement with both national and global audiences.
- In today’s digital age, maintaining a strong online brand presence is crucial for effective communication with citizens.