Punjab Launches Project Hifazat

March 8, 2025

Recently, Punjab launched ‘Project Hifazat’, a transformative initiative aimed at boosting support for women and children facing violence. The project was unveiled on the eve of International Women’s Day. This initiative seeks to create a comprehensive response mechanism to address domestic violence and harassment, ensuring a safer environment for victims to report abuse.

Objectives of Project Hifazat

The primary goal of Project Hifazat is to eliminate the fear that prevents victims from seeking help. It aims to provide an integrated support system for women and children in distress. The project focuses on enhancing last-mile connectivity, ensuring that victims have immediate access to assistance.

Helpline and Response Mechanism

The project features a 24×7 helpline, number 181, which categorises calls into emergency, non-emergency, and informational. Emergency cases are directly transferred to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) for swift action. This structured approach ensures that urgent situations are prioritised.

Multi-Agency Collaboration

Project Hifazat promotes collaboration among various departments, including social security, health, and the Punjab police. This coordination facilitates efficient rescue operations, legal assistance, medical aid, and psycho-social support for victims. The involvement of multiple agencies enhances the overall support network for those in need.

Support Services Offered

Victims can access One Stop Centres (OSCs) and District Child Protection Units (DCPUs) for non-emergency cases. These facilities provide psychological counselling, legal aid, and rehabilitation services. Additionally, information on shelter homes and welfare schemes is made available to empower victims.

Control Room and Monitoring

A state-of-the-art control room in Chandigarh manages helpline traffic and monitors the effectiveness of the initiative. This facility generates reports to evaluate the project’s impact and ensure that no victim remains unheard or unsupported.

Legal Framework and Implementation

Project Hifazat aims to strengthen the implementation of key laws, such as the Domestic Violence Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. By enhancing legal and social support, the initiative encourages a safer society for women and children.

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