On 11th July 2025, the Naya Disha Project team of Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) conducted a community awareness programme at the Sahapur Majherpara ICDS Centre (Centre No. 177) with the active participation of 50 women from the local community. The programme aimed to educate, engage, and empower women on critical social issues that continue to impact families and children in the area.

The session was enriched by the presence of Rakhi Saha Dey, Anganwadi Worker of the host ICDS Centre, and Lisha Mondal, 1st ANM from Kulermath Health Centre. Both officials offered insights from their professional experience and affirmed the importance of collaborative community efforts to combat long-standing issues.

The programme focused on a range of pressing topics, including violation of human rights, child labour, child marriage, human trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. The team used real-life examples and accessible language to help participants understand the legal implications and social consequences of these issues. Practical solutions and local referral mechanisms were also discussed, empowering women to seek help and take preventive steps within their families and neighbourhoods.

Interactive discussions helped create a safe space for participants to share concerns, ask questions, and understand their rights as individuals and caregivers. The programme concluded with a collective commitment to raise voices against injustice and protect the most vulnerable members of society — especially children and adolescent girls.

“Awareness is the first step — together, we build safer, stronger communities.”

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