Bhubaneswar, July 19: In a significant move to bolster the safety and empowerment of female students, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today launched the ‘Shaktishree’ programme, a state-wide initiative targeting safety reforms across universities and colleges.
Announcing the programme, CM Majhi stated, “For the security of girls in the state, Shaktishree will be implemented in 16 universities and 730 government and grant-in-aid colleges.”
The initiative comes at a time of heightened public concern following the selfimmolation of a girl student at FM College, which sparked widespread demands for stronger protective measures for young women on campuses.
Key features of Shaktishree
The ‘Shaktishree’ programme is designed as a comprehensive framework with eight key components focused on proactive safety, support systems, and institutional accountability:
Self-defence training
Girl students will receive regular training in self-defence techniques to build confidence and enhance personal safety.Mental health support
Institutions will offer mental health training and counseling to support emotional well-being and resilience.24/7 Shaktishree mobile app
A new mobile app will provide round-the-clock campus safety alerts, emergency assistance, and access to support services.Internal grievance committees
Each institution will form a dedicated committee to address student complaints and ensure swift redressal.Code of conduct for faculty & staff
A mandatory code of conduct will be enforced to maintain respectful and safe educational environments.Annual safety audits
Institutions will be required to submit detailed safety audit reports by December each year, promoting transparency and evaluation.Government oversight
State authorities will monitor implementation to ensure strict and uniform compliance across campuses.Inclusive campus culture
Emphasis will be placed on cultivating a safe and inclusive environment where all students, especially young women, can thrive.
CM Majhi emphasized that Shaktishree is more than a symbolic measure.
“We are not just responding to incidents — we are building a safer future. Our colleges must become safe havens of learning, not places of fear,” he said.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a secure atmosphere for women in higher education, stressing that implementation would be structured, monitored, and accountable.
