Establishment of Balika Manches

Summary

Innovation: To engage and empower girls in decision making processes through the establishment of Balika Manches

Duration: Monthly

Location: Government Schools in Hoshiarpur, Punjab

Key Stakeholders :Department of Women and Child Development, District Child Protection Unit, District Administration, Gram Panchayats, Adolescent Girls, Government Schools.

Brief Description

Balika Manches are platforms created at Government schools in which girls from senior secondary and higher senior secondary classes come together, participate and find a solution to issues that confront adolescent girls. One girl from each class is selected as a representative and other girls are encouraged to participate and choose their chairperson. This platform provides an opportunity for girls to express themselves in a safe and secure atmosphere. Members seek support from representatives of Balika Manches along with teachers to device solutions to critical issues. The power of decision making at the student level boosts the confidence of girls, bringing in a sense of unity to speak up against or for issues related to women and work towards girls empowerment and welfare. Manches also include activities like debates, skits, group songs, play and talks to sensitize school children regarding issues related to women empowerment, health and nutrition, women’s safety, etc. Girls are encouraged to participate, plan and make decisions for themselves.

Factors Contributing to Success

Officials from various departments came together to create Balika Manches and sensitized students as well as their parents about the objectives of the initiative. Students were encouraged to participate and share their problems/issues at public platform so that a healthy dialogue takes place to confront their problems to find solutions, with the help of their selected representatives and school teachers.

Outcome, Benefits & Impact

Girls were empowered to voice their opinion and thoughts related to issues confronting girls and women. These Balika Manches have instilled confidence and emboldened girls to face and tackle challenges. This has also created an impact on the mindset of parents, who are now encouraging their girls to pursue higher education and face challenges with confidence.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Initially, teachers, students and parents had low expectations regarding the purpose of Balika Manches. However, once adequate awareness was generated on the importance of these forums, a positive and vibrant response poured in leading to an attitudinal shift in community behaviour and understanding.

These forums will create an atmosphere that encourages girls to question, challenge and help society progress towards being gender sensitive.

Source: Innovations under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao