HP Government to annually honour 5 women with ‘Himachal Mahila Award’

Dharamsala, March 8, 2013: “State government will annually honour the five women with ‘Himachal Mahila Award’ for their outstanding contributions in the fields of education, health, empowerment, sports, culture and social services sectors,” said  Chief Minister, Virbhadra Singh at a state level function on International Women's Day, at Shimla.

He said, “State government would establish ‘mahila ashrams’ in every district in order to provide shelter for the destitute women.”

He also announced that efforts would be made to open more Anganwari Centres throughout the state to facilitate the women and children.

He said that today women were excelling in all the fields like education, sports, science and politics etc and had made their presence felt. Their economic and social conditions had improved and they were more aware of their rights and were contributing significantly in development of the society and the nation. However, it was a matter of great concern that still they were not enjoying full freedom and protection.

Expressing his concern over the recent incidents of crime against women, the Chief Minister said that such incidents were shameful and effective steps were being taken at National level and by the state governments to impose check on such incidents he sought, cooperation of the society to put an end to crime against women. He said that state government was sensitive towards women folk and sincere efforts were being made to ensure their social and economical welfare.