Awareness on Gender through Community Mobilization

Summary

Innovation: To disseminate positive messages and change the mindset of people about the Girl Child

Duration: One Day

Location: Paddal Ground, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Key Stakeholders: Additional Deputy Commissioner, Red Cross Society, Department of Women & Child Development, Anganwadi Workers (AWW), District Programme Officer, Child Development Programme Officers, Community Members.

Brief Description

The District Administration of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh dedicated a day for Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) activities during the Red Cross Fair 2018. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh suggested creating a logo using a human chain at the venue of Red Cross Fair in Paddal Ground, Mandi. He organised a photographer and videographer. The District Programme Officer formulated the concept of a human chain formation to display BBBP messages through the BBBP logo targeting the general public. It was initially conceptualised on a computer. 385 circles of people formed the BBBP logo wearing specifically coloured aprons and head gear of different colours. As the activity required rehearsal, the District Programme Officer involved Anganwadi Workers from the blocks of Mandi, Sadar, Rewalsar and Sundernagar in Mandi District.

400 Anganwadi Workers and 20 Supervisors participated in the event. The BBBP logo and messages like ‘Save The Girl Child’ were created through the dynamic and flawless movement of AWWs without any marking to guide them on the ground. The captivating event was streamed live on social media.

Factors Contributing to Success

The success of the demonstration can be attributed to the active support of the District Administration, Red Cross Society, Child Development Programme Officer (CDPO), the Supervisor of the CDPO and Anganwadi Workers. The proactive participation of the community, a freelance photographer and the Police were equally helpful.

Outcome, Benefits & Impact

Positive messaging regarding the Girl Child has impacted people’s mindsets through this artistic display. Viewers have voluntarily edited the video and added music to suit local interests in dialects like Pahari and Naati in order to strengthen the reach of BBBP’s message. In addition, messages are being sent through social media in the State, District and beyond.

Challenges and Future Prospects

As the concept of a human chain was designed on a computer, it was challenging to conduct a flawless dynamic movement on the ground with 400 individuals. But with rehearsals and diligence, it was made possible.

The activity has been greatly appreciated by the general public. Similar activities can be organized in order to disseminate valuable information that transforms the mindset of society towards the Girl Child.

Source: Innovations under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao