Additional Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Ghulam Mohd (JKAS) inaugurated a two-day in-person training programme for Women Helpline functionaries on September 10 at the Conference Hall, DC Office Leh. 

The programme was organised by the Department of Social and Tribal Welfare, UT Ladakh, with support from the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development and the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS). It aims to strengthen the capacity of frontline workers to provide effective, empathetic, and timely support to women in distress.

In his inaugural address, ADC Ghulam Mohd underlined the importance of women’s empowerment for overall social and economic progress. He urged women to avail themselves of government welfare schemes and suggested linking a designated police officer directly with the Women Helpline to ensure swift responses in cases of violence and abuse.

Sonali Kumari, Assistant Director, Savitribai Phule National Institute, Mohali, introduced Mission Shakti, describing it as “a mission of hope, help, and change.” She stressed the importance of building professional skills among helpline functionaries so that survivors receive compassionate and timely assistance.

Day one technical sessions were conducted by Dr. Kimneihat Vaiphei, Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatric Social Work, NIMHANS, and Rigzen Angmo, PhD Scholar, NIMHANS. The sessions focused on counselling skills, effective communication, and mental health awareness. Participants were trained in active listening, confidentiality, building trust, and responding sensitively to survivors of domestic violence.

The trainers also introduced key frameworks, including the LIVES Model (Listen, Inquire, Validate, Ensure Safety, and Social Support) and the 4 Fs of Fear and Stress (Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn). Role plays and interactive activities helped participants gain practical skills in handling sensitive cases.

Day two will cover advanced modules and practical demonstrations to further enhance the Women Helpline’s capacity.

Participants included representatives from the One Stop Centre (OSC), Women Helpline (WHL), Hub for Empowerment of Women, NIMHANS, and the Savitribai Phule National Institute. Their active engagement reflected a shared commitment to building a stronger support system for women in Ladakh, ensuring timely help and compassionate care for survivors.