NBJK Hosts “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra in Support of Women’s Safety and Dignity

07 May 2025, Hazaribagh: NBJK today hosted a stop of the “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra at its coordination office in Amritnagar. The 100-day nationwide campaign, launched on 8th March 2025 from Mount Abu, Rajasthan—International Women’s Day—is aimed at promoting women’s safety and dignity. Covering 21,000 kilometers across 21 Indian states, the Yatra will conclude in New Delhi on 7th June.

Welcoming the Yatra, NBJK Secretary Mr. Satish Girija described it as a timely and essential initiative in light of growing concerns around women’s security. He emphasized that while women must be empowered to stand up for their rights, support from both society and the government is equally important. Mr. Girija also highlighted NBJK’s long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment through initiatives such as microcredit, Usha Silai Schools, and advanced agricultural practices, which have enabled thousands of women to achieve economic self-reliance.

A moving moment came when 75-year-old participant Ms. Jammuben from Gujarat performed a heartfelt song centered on peace and human compassion, earning admiration from the audience.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Shatrughan Jha, Bihar Coordinator of the Yatra and a noted Gandhian activist, spoke about the historical significance of women’s power in Indian culture. Quoting the Vedas, he noted that over 200 female sages have been mentioned in the scriptures. He stressed the importance of nurturing strong values in children, sharing the example of Rukmini Devi, mother of Vinoba Bhave, who raised three sons who all became scholars and ascetics.

Mr. Rajendra Yadav, National Coordinator of the Yatra from Haryana, commended NBJK for upholding timeless values such as compassion and love. He also addressed the grim reality of gender-based violence in India, where over 90 incidents of rape or sexual assault are reported daily, many ending in death. Recalling Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that the safety of women reflects a truly independent nation, Mr. Yadav called for urgent societal change and stronger legal measures to protect women’s dignity.

The event also saw participation from community members, including Anganwadi worker Ms. Aarti Devi from Rola and Self-Help Group member Ms. Meena Devi, who shared their perspectives on women’s issues.

The event was moderated by Mr. Rajeev Singh, Senior Program Manager at NBJK, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Geeta, Jharkhand Coordinator of the “Jagte Raho” Bharat Yatra.