NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR WOMEN

NEWS: The National Commission for Women (NCW) observed its 34th Foundation Day on 31st January, reaffirming its role as India’s apex statutory body for protecting women’s rights.

National Commission for Women (NCW)

• The NCW is a statutory body established on 31st January 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990.
• Its primary mandate is to review constitutional safeguards for women, recommend legislative measures, and facilitate the redressal of grievances.
• 34th Foundation Day on 31st January: The event highlighted women’s health as a core pillar of empowerment and nation-building under the theme Swasthya hi Sashaktikaran.

Constitution of the Commission:

• The Central Government nominates the body.
• A Chairperson: Committed to the cause of women.
• Five Members: Persons of ability and integrity with experience in law, trade unionism, management, women’s voluntary organizations, administration, or social welfare.
• At least one member must belong to the Scheduled Castes and one to the Scheduled Tribes.
• A Member-Secretary: An expert in management/sociology or a civil servant with appropriate experience.
• All hold office for three years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.

Functions

• Examining matters relating to safeguards provided for women under the Constitution.
• Presenting annual reports to the Central Government on the working of safeguards and recommending effective implementation.
• Reviewing existing laws affecting women and suggesting amendments to fix lacunae or shortcomings.
• Initiative to look into matters of deprivation of rights, non-implementation of laws, and non-compliance with policy guidelines.