Abhayam 181 Helpline Turns 10: Gujarat’s Lifeline for Women Crosses 16.58 Lakh Cases

Gujarat’s Abhayam 181 Women Helpline has completed a decade of service, emerging as a critical support system for women in distress across the state. Launched in March 2015 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the helpline has assisted over 16.58 lakh women facing domestic violence, harassment, emotional trauma, and other crises.

 

Key highlights:

 

- The helpline operates 24/7 and is supported by 59 rescue vans, including 12 under Ahmedabad’s Safe City Project.

 

- Over 3.31 lakh women have received on-ground assistance via rescue vans, with 2.09 lakh cases resolved immediately at the scene.

 

- The Abhayam mobile app, launched in August 2018, has been downloaded by more than 2.73 lakh women for quick access to help.

 

Financial and operational support:

 

- The Gujarat government has allocated ₹37.78 crore over the past three years, with ₹15.02 crore earmarked for FY 2025–26.

 

- The initiative is jointly managed by the Women and Child Development Department, Home Department, GVK EMRI, and Tata Institute of Social Sciences.

 

Scope of services:

 

- Assistance spans domestic violence, sexual and mental harassment, cybercrime, stalking, child marriage, substance abuse, and more.

 

- Women can also access legal aid, counselling centres, and police support through the helpline.

Impact:

 

- Abhayam has become a symbol of empowerment and safety, offering not just intervention but also long-term support and guidance.

 

Sources: WebIndia123, Devdiscourse, Economic Times Government, Times of India Ahmedabad, TV13 Gujarati