The Self-Defence Training Programme (2018) by the Delhi Police was a significant initiative aimed at empowering women and girls in Delhi, helping them become more confident and capable of defending themselves against potential physical harm or harassment. School/college-going girls, working women, and housewives in Delhi were the primary focus of the programme.
The training targeted women and girls who are more vulnerable to harassment and physical harm in public spaces. Over 325,081 girls and women participated in the programme. 1,526 training sessions were conducted throughout the year. 15 days of training. 10 days of training, with each session lasting 2 hours a day. The programme focused on teaching basic self-defence techniques to help women handle physical confrontations and harassment situations.
The sessions aimed to increase awareness of surroundings, enhancing the participants’ ability to react appropriately in dangerous situations. In addition to physical techniques, the programme worked to instill confidence and promote an active defense mindset. The main goal was to ensure that women are empowered with the tools and knowledge to defend themselves in the event of an assault or threat. The programme aimed to promote gender equality by reducing women’s vulnerability in public spaces.
It sought to create a self-reliant community of women who could stand up for themselves and others. The programme addressed crucial issues of women’s safety and gender-based violence, offering practical solutions to combat threats. It raised community awareness about women’s rights and the importance of self-defence training in preventing crimes such as harassment and assault.
The programme contributed to the broader movement of gender empowerment and highlighted the need for enhanced safety and security measures for women in Delhi.
This initiative demonstrated how targeted programmes can empower vulnerable populations, equipping them with the skills needed to protect themselves.
By fostering confidence among women, the programme reduced their dependence on others in crises and helped them assert their rights.
The Self-Defence Training Programme emphasized both physical preparedness and mental confidence, creating a safer, more empowering environment for women in Delhi.
The programme was an essential step toward women’s empowerment in Delhi, highlighting the critical need for both self-defence skills and a change in societal attitudes towards women’s safety. The training has had lasting positive effects, increasing women’s sense of security, self-reliance, and independence.
