Article by Dr Aarti

We celebrate March 8th as International Women's Day every year. It is a global day of celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world and to raise awareness about the need for gender equality. It is a day to honor the women who have fought for women's rights and to continue the fight for gender equality. This year's theme is "Choose to Challenge," which encourages individuals to challenge gender biases and inequality and take action towards creating a more gender-equal world.

The past year has highlighted the critical role that women play in society, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Women have been on the frontlines of the crisis, serving as healthcare workers, caregivers, and essential workers. However, women have also been disproportionately affected by the pandemic, with many experiencing job loss, increased caregiving responsibilities, and a rise in gender-based violence.

Despite all the challenges, women around the world have continued to make significant contributions to their communities and society as a whole. Women have led efforts to promote public health, support vulnerable populations, and advocate for social justice and human rights.

One organization that is doing its part to empower women is The Helpbox Foundation. This Delhi-based national NGO is run by women from different states who work tirelessly to promote gender equality and women's empowerment.

The Helpbox Foundation was founded in 2021 with the mission of empowering women by providing them with education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The organization's programs are designed to help women become self-sufficient and to break the cycle of poverty that often holds them back.

The Helpbox Foundation has a range of programs that support women at different stages of their lives. The organization's flagship program is the Women's Empowerment Program, which provides vocational training, business skills, and financial literacy to women in underserved communities. The program has helped many women start their own businesses and become financially independent.

Another program run by The Helpbox Foundation is the Girl Child Education Program, which focuses on educating girls in rural areas. The program provides education to those girls who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend school. The program also works with schools to improve the quality of education and to ensure that girls are able to attend school in a safe and supportive environment.

The Helpbox Foundation also provides healthcare services to women in underserved communities. The organization's health programs focus on maternal and child health, reproductive health, and disease prevention. The organization runs campaigns to provide healthcare knowledge to women who are uneducated.

One of the women who has benefited from The Helpbox Foundation's programs is Neha, a young woman from a rural area in Uttar Pradesh. Neha was married at a young age and had to drop out of school. With the help of The Helpbox Foundation, Neha was able to complete her education and start her own business. Today, she is financially independent and able to support her family.

On this International Women's Day, let us celebrate the achievements of women like Neha and the women who run The Helpbox Foundation. Let us also remember that there is still much work to be done to achieve gender equality. We must continue to support organizations like The Helpbox Foundation and work towards a world where every woman has the opportunity to reach her full potential.   

 However, gender inequality and discrimination continue to be major issues, with women facing barriers to education, employment, and political representation. Women also experience high rates of gender-based violence, including sexual harassment and assault, domestic violence, and femicide.

On this International Women's Day, we must recognize the progress that has been made towards gender equality, but also acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. It is important to challenge gender stereotypes, promote women's leadership, and advocate for policies that promote gender equality.

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls. These goals include ending poverty, ensuring quality education for all, promoting gender equality, and reducing violence against women.

We all have a role to play in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. This International Women's Day, let us choose to challenge gender biases and inequality, and work towards creating a more equitable and just world for all.

 (Writer is the member of National NGO – The Helpbox Foundation, Delhi)

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