Baramulla, Dec 13: To commemorate World Human Rights Day, CHINAR International organized an awareness program at Government Boys High School, Arampora, Baramulla, bringing together 160 residents from Arampora and Bonichakul.
The event was held in collaboration with the Human Welfare Voluntary Organization, One Stop Centre, Sankalp Hub for Empowerment of Women, Kashmir Helpline and Sky Trust.
Eight resource persons delivered sessions on a range of issues, including mental health and associated stigma, women’s health, the role of men in society, digital violence, responsible use of social media and smartphones, and positive parenting.
Participants said the day-long program provided clarity on topics they had little prior understanding of. Shafeeqa Akhtar, a resident of Bonichakul who attended the entire event, said the information felt “timely and useful.”
“We learned about health, schemes for our children, and how to create a better home environment. We were not aware of these services earlier. Programs like this should continue,” she said.
The event also included detailed briefings on government schemes such as old-age and widow pensions, marriage assistance, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, Ladli Beti Scheme, scholarships and ICPS services. Participants were informed about how to report domestic violence and the helpline numbers available for support.
Umair Rashid, Program Associate at CHINAR International, said the program’s timing reinforced its significance.
“Holding this awareness program on World Human Rights Day echoed its purpose by promoting awareness, dignity, protection and equal access to rights and services for all,” he said.
Community leaders praised the initiative. Mohammad Amin Khanday, Community Head of Arampora, said the sessions helped residents better understand available government services and the work of participating organizations.
“Such collaborative sessions are very important for strengthening our community,” he asserted.
For many participants, the workshop offered new insights into mental health and welfare-related services.
“This session was very helpful. It was an eye-opening experience for many of us,” said Hameeda Begum from Arampora.
Participants urged the organizers to hold similar programs in the future, expressing hope that the knowledge gained would help them access schemes and services previously unknown to them.
CHINAR International’s work aligns closely with the spirit of Human Rights Day, as its programs focus on ensuring equal access to opportunities, protection for marginalized groups and awareness of essential rights and services.
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