Reaffirming its commitment to women’s safety, the Bhagwant Mann government in Punjab has intensified efforts to protect women and children through its flagship initiative, Project Hifazat.
Designed to eliminate the fear that often stops victims from reporting violence or harassment, the initiative ensures round-the-clock support via the 181 helpline, offering immediate assistance to women and children facing domestic violence, workplace harassment, or any form of abuse.
Launched by Dr. Baljeet Kaur, Minister of Social Security, Women and Child Development, Punjab, on International Women’s Day, Project Hifazat aims to strengthen the state’s response mechanism for victims of violence. The mission focuses on building a robust support system that reaches victims promptly and preserves their dignity.
Dr. Baljeet Kaur emphasized that the project’s primary goal is to assist women who hesitate to report abuse due to fear, urging all women to save the 181 helpline number in their phones so they can seek help without hesitation.
Dr. Baljeet Kaur highlighted that Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann envisions a safe and prosperous Punjab, which can only be achieved when women feel secure. She stated that Project Hifazat is a significant step toward fulfilling this vision. Despite the presence of multiple schemes, she noted that timely support remains a challenge—one that this project aims to address by improving coordination between departments and agencies to ensure immediate assistance.
Under the initiative, the helpline provides swift guidance and support. Calls are categorized into emergency, non-emergency, and informational queries. Emergency cases are transferred directly to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112).
The project enhances collaboration between the Social Security, Women and Child Development Departments, Punjab Police, and the Health and Family Welfare Department, enabling rescue operations, legal assistance, medical aid, and psychosocial support. District Program Officers will manage implementation under the supervision of Deputy Commissioners, with dedicated vehicles deployed in each district to ensure timely response.
For non-emergency cases, victims will receive psychological counseling, legal help, and rehabilitation support through One-Stop Centers (OSCs), District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), and District Centers for Women Empowerment.
Information about shelter homes and welfare schemes will also be provided. A modern control room in Chandigarh will oversee call operations, offer information on women-focused schemes, and generate detailed reports for monitoring.
Reiterating the government’s dedication to safeguarding women and children, Dr. Baljeet Kaur said, “Through Project Hifazat, we are ensuring that no victim feels neglected or helpless. This initiative will help create a safer environment and empower victims to live with dignity.” She urged citizens to report cases of violence by calling helpline numbers 181 and 1098.
By strengthening legal and social support systems, Project Hifazat will enhance enforcement of key laws such as the Domestic Violence Act and the POCSO Act, contributing to a safer and more just society. More than a government program, Project Hifazat represents emotional reassurance for every daughter, sister, and mother who lives in fear—offering the hope that women in Punjab will move forward with confidence, not fear.
