A two days National Workshop, sponsored by the National Commission for Women, Govt. of India, New Delhi on “Impact of science and Technology on Social change: Women issues and challenges” was organized at College of Home Science, MPUAT, Udaipur on 21st and 22nd September 2012, in collaboration with Home Science Alumni Association, Udaipur. Over one hundred and twenty delegates from various institutes of Udaipur and other parts of the country enthusiastically participated in the workshop.

The event was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Hon’ble Mrs. Mamta Sharma, Chairperson, National Commission for Women, New Delhi. The function was presided over by Prof. O.P. Gill, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, MPUAT, Udaipur. The dais was also graced by Dr. Arti Sankhla, Assoc. Dean, College of Home Science, Dr. Vibha Bhatnagar, Organizing Secretary and Dr. Gaytri Tiwari, Joint Organizing Secretary of the workshop. On the occasion, the workshop souvenir was released by the dignitaries.

Mrs. Mamta Sharma addressed the gathering with her motivational words. While talking about women issues, Hon’ble madam stressed that women empowerment should be initiated with tackling issues like female foeticide, child marriage, dowry system, etc. She pointed that a joint effort of the NCW, police, administration and common man, especially women themselves, is a must in order to curb the malpractices against women. She also informed that a women helpline has been started by NCW in the state of Gujarat and soon the women of Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana will be benefited by the same.

Prof. O.P. Gill said that different challenges are faced by the rural and urban women and without empowering women the scientific achievements are worthless.

The key-note address was delivered by Prof. Amla Batra, Emeritus Scientist CSIR and UGC, New Delhi on up liftment of women through science and technology. She shared her valued experiences and said that today’s women have overcome the traditional mind set and excelled in almost all the professions. Empowerment would become more relevant if women are educated, better informed and can take rational decisions.

A healthy panel discussion was held on the second day of the workshop. Subject matter specialists from various fields viz. health, psychosocial and law sectors discussed women issues in context with the present scenario. During the workshop, meaningful lectures were delivered by eminent speakers and the delegates participated actively in the discussions.

Key issues were identified and valuable suggestions were put-up through this event for the welfare of women in view of advancement of science and technology. The two day workshop unfolded issues of concern, and strategies to cope up with challenges ahead of women were worked out. The overwhelming response of participants made this event a productive opportunity for the thinkers, philosophers, academicians and learners at large. The outcomes of this workshop will help the future endeavors.

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