The Directorate of Health & Family Welfare (DHFW), Nagaland, demonstrated its strong commitment to fostering a respectful and secure work environment by organizing a crucial awareness workshop on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013. The session took place on April 22nd at the Directorate’s Conference Hall in Kohima.
Reinforcing a Harassment-Free Workplace: DHFW’s Commitment
According to a press release from the IEC Bureau, Directorate of Health & Family Welfare Nagaland, Kohima, the department underscored its dedication to “promoting a respectful and harassment-free workplace through continued awareness and sensitization efforts.” This workshop signifies a proactive step towards ensuring the safety and dignity of all employees within the health and family welfare sector in Nagaland.
Internal Complaint Committee Spearheads POSH Act Awareness
The initiative for this vital workshop was undertaken by the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) of DHFW. This underscores the organization’s proactive approach to promoting awareness and ensuring strict compliance with the POSH Act of 2013. The ICC plays a pivotal role in addressing and preventing sexual harassment within the workplace.
Expert Insights on POSH Act Legalities and Responsibilities
Dr. Vezokholu Theyo, Additional Director, DHFW, skilfully chaired the programme, setting a focused and engaging tone for the session. The workshop featured a comprehensive presentation by the esteemed resource person, Sunjib Rana, B. Com, LLM, Advocate and Retainer Lawyer with the Kohima District Legal Services Authority.
Mr. Rana provided invaluable insights into the legal safeguards and responsibilities outlined under the POSH Act. He passionately encouraged active and collective participation from all attendees in cultivating a work environment where every individual feels safe and respected.
Inclusive Participation Through Multi-Shift Sessions
To ensure that all categories of employees within the Directorate benefited from this essential awareness programme, the workshop was thoughtfully conducted in three distinct shifts. This inclusive approach catered to the diverse working schedules and roles within the DHFW:
Shift 1: Drivers and Grade IV staff (Regular & Adhoc)
Shift 2: Ministerial Staff (Regular & Adhoc)
Shift 3: Officials from NHM, NSACS, NHP, AYUSH, Drug Control, Pharmacist Cell, IDSP, E.E. Wing, NHPS, IEC, and Food Safety
This strategic scheduling ensured maximum participation and engagement across all levels of the organization.
The impactful workshop concluded with a sincere vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Arenla Walling, Joint Director, DHFW. This gesture acknowledged the efforts of all involved in making the awareness session a success and reiterated the Directorate’s ongoing commitment to upholding the principles of the POSH Act and fostering a safe and respectful workplace for everyone.