National Seminar on International Day of the Girl Child 2022

On October 11, 2022, the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation hosted a National Seminar at the India International Centre, New Delhi, commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the International Day of the Girl Child (IDG). This seminar aimed to highlight the importance of empowering girls and amplifying their voices, as well as addressing the challenges they face globally, particularly in the context of recent crises such as COVID-19, climate change, and humanitarian conflicts.

Over the past decade, there has been a growing recognition of the issues affecting girls, with governments, policymakers, and the general public becoming more aware of the need for gender equality and girl empowerment. However, despite these advances, investment in girls’ rights remains limited, and girls continue to face severe challenges related to education, physical and mental wellness, and the prevention of violence. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated many of these issues, rolling back some of the hard-won gains made in recent years.

Key Highlights from the Seminar:

  • Reflections on the Last Decade:
    The seminar explored the progress made over the past decade in girls' rights, acknowledging the importance of global awareness campaigns and the growing opportunities for girls to be heard on the global stage. Despite setbacks, it was emphasized that girls are resilient, adaptable, and capable of being the changemakers in their communities.
  • Focus on Unmet Challenges:
    The seminar discussed the major barriers that continue to limit girls’ potential, including inadequate access to education, inadequate mental and physical health support, and the ongoing threat of gender-based violence. The speakers also highlighted how climate change and conflicts disproportionately affect girls, increasing their vulnerabilities.
  • Resilience and Potential of Girls:
    Despite adversity, girls around the world have consistently shown their strength and resourcefulness. They are ready for a decade of acceleration forward, with increased opportunities for leadership and empowerment. The seminar reiterated the need for a collective responsibility to invest in the future of girls and ensure that they have access to the resources, support, and opportunities to drive positive change.
  • Call to Action:
    The seminar underscored the need for all sectors of society—governments, organizations, families, and individuals—to stand accountable for promoting girls’ agency, leadership, and potential. The event was a rallying cry for more investment and advocacy for girls’ rights, ensuring they are equipped to contribute meaningfully to a better, more inclusive future.

Social Welfare Committee’s Ongoing Efforts:

The Social Welfare Committee of the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation has been actively working since 2013 to address social evils affecting girls and women, both in urban and rural areas. The committee’s work focuses on:

  • Awareness and Protection Against Rape: Raising awareness about sexual violence and providing resources for prevention and support for survivors.
  • Awareness and Protection Against Girl Child Killing: Advocating against female infanticide and gender-based violence.
  • Awareness and Protection Against Dowry: Educating communities about the harmful effects of dowry practices and fighting for the empowerment of girls.
  • Awareness and Protection Against Discrimination: Tackling gender-based discrimination and promoting equal opportunities for girls and women.
  • Self-Defense Training and Awareness for Females: Offering self-defense training to girls and women, empowering them with the skills and knowledge to protect themselves from harm.

This initiative aims to ensure the safety, well-being, and empowerment of young girls and women, so they can thrive in society free from violence and discrimination. The foundation continues to work toward a future where girls can achieve their full potential and become leaders in their communities.

Conclusion:

The International Day of the Girl Child Seminar serves as a reminder that while we’ve made some progress in advancing girls’ rights, there is still much more work to be done. As we commemorate this decade of progress, it is crucial that we continue to invest in the rights and opportunities of girls, ensuring that they are not only survivors but leaders in shaping a better tomorrow for everyone. The Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation remains committed to advocating for gender equality and empowering the girl child, both in India and globally.


Highlight: Open House Discussion on ‘Sports and Human Rights

- Shri Neeraj Kumar, CEO, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation

During the Open House Discussion on ‘Sports and Human Rights’ organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NS-NIS), Patiala on 16th October 2023, Shri Neeraj Kumar made significant contributions by addressing key issues related to fairness and inclusivity in sports.

  1. Personal Experiences of Discrimination in the Selection Process:
    Shri Neeraj Kumar recalled his personal experiences of facing discrimination during the selection process, highlighting how such biases hinder the growth and opportunities of aspiring athletes. He emphasized that discrimination often starts with minor issues and gradually escalates, creating systemic barriers for deserving candidates.

  2. Right to Play as a Fundamental Human Right:
    He strongly advocated for the ‘Right to Play’ as a fundamental human right, recognized globally by frameworks such as the International Olympic Charter. Shri Kumar emphasized that every athlete, irrespective of their background, should have the freedom and opportunity to participate in sports without fear of prejudice or exclusion.

  3. Call for National Federations to Safeguard This Right:
    Shri Kumar stressed the pivotal role of National Federations in protecting and promoting the Right to Play. He urged these federations to ensure a transparent, merit-based selection process and adopt mechanisms that provide equal opportunities for all athletes. He highlighted that safeguarding this right is essential to promote fairness, diversity, and inclusivity in Indian sports.