Assam: Agnishika - A Bold Move for Women

In a significant move for women’s empowerment, APRINS, a renowned NGO focused on agricultural and social development, has partnered with Cotton University’s Department of Mass Communication, Journalism, and Media Studies. Together, they have launched “Agnishika: Flames of Fire,” a transformative initiative aimed at uplifting women’s lives in Assam.

The event, set for March 8, 2025, at Sudmersen Hall, Cotton University, marks the beginning of a long-term movement. This campaign will focus on education, skill-building, and advocacy to create real change in women’s lives.

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A Campaign For Public Safety

One of the main components of the “Agnishika” initiative is a large-scale petition aimed at improving public safety for women. The petition, with a goal of 30,000 signatures, calls for crucial improvements in public spaces. The key demands include better street lighting, increased CCTV surveillance, and the establishment of clean, accessible public toilets at important locations like markets, bus stops, and schools.

Both online and offline platforms will be used to gather signatures. The campaign will culminate in submitting the petition to the Women and Child Development Minister of Assam. This effort will push for actionable changes that directly impact women’s safety and well-being in public spaces.

Empowering Women With Legal Knowledge

In partnership with the District Legal Service Authority – Kamrup (Metro), APRINS and Cotton University will also distribute legal awareness leaflets. These leaflets will educate women about their rights and available legal protections. The goal is to ensure that women have the knowledge they need to stand up for themselves and their communities.

Role Of Media In Driving Social Change

Sayanika Dutta, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Journalism, and Media Studies at Cotton University, stressed the important role of media in fostering social change. According to Dutta, this collaboration offers students a platform to amplify voices advocating for women’s rights and to engage in meaningful discussions about women’s empowerment. This partnership will help students use their skills for social good, creating impactful communication that sparks change.

A Long-Term Commitment To Women’s Empowerment

Urmi Mala Mahanta, Director of APRINS, emphasized that this event is only the beginning. APRINS is going to sustaining its efforts to improve women’s lives. Beyond the “Agnishika” event, APRINS will continue to run skill development programs. These programs will equip women with the tools they need to succeed and create lasting positive changes in their communities.

A Platform For Action Beyond Women’s Day

The “Agnishika” event is not just a one-day initiative. It is a platform for ongoing action. The event will feature discussions, expert views, and student participation. The goal is to create an environment where sustained efforts for women’s empowerment can thrive well beyond International Women’s Day. “Agnishika” is set to become a cornerstone of women’s empowerment in Assam, and this collaboration signals a brighter future for women in the region.