Leh: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Leh, Santosh Sukhdeve, chaired a meeting to discuss preparations for the 10-year anniversary celebration of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative. Launched in 2015, the program aims to improve the child sex ratio and promote women’s empowerment through education and awareness. The meeting focused on finalizing activities and events planned as part of the celebrations, which will be held from January 22 to March 8, 2025.
DC Leh emphasized that the official inauguration of the celebrations will take place on January 22 at both the state and district levels. The inaugural event will include an oath-taking ceremony, a signature campaign and a Prabhat Pheri (Awareness March) to spread awareness about the importance of girls’ education and empowerment.
To ensure widespread participation and impact, a series of weekly activities have been planned throughout the celebration period. These will include awareness programs on menstrual hygiene, gender sensitization workshops for boys and men will be conducted to challenge gender stereotypes and encourage equal opportunities.Recognizing the importance of mental health, special awareness campaigns and counseling sessions will be organized to support young girls in addressing emotional and psychological well-being.
As part of the campaign’s outreach efforts, publicity and awareness programs will be conducted through media to reach a wider audience. A sports week will be held to promote physical fitness and encourage participation of girls in sports. A bike rally will also be organized as a symbolic representation of women’s empowerment and mobility.
To further strengthen women’s safety and support systems, the promotion of women helpline numbers (WHL-181) and child helpline (CHL-1098) will be undertaken through various awareness drives.
DC Leh urged government departments, and the general public to actively participate in the celebrations and contribute towards making the initiative a grand success. He reiterated that collective efforts are essential in ensuring the education, protection, and empowerment of girls, and that this 10 – year milestone of BBBP should serve as a renewed commitment to the cause.
The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh; Assistant Commissioner; Development, Leh; Divisional Forest Officer, Leh; Chief Education Officer, Leh; Chief Medical Officer, Leh; District Social Welfare Officer, Leh; District Panchayat Officer, Leh; District Youth Services & Sports Officer, Leh; Superintendent, ITI, Leh.
