The CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu organised a programme to mark International Women’s Day with the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls”,– Ensuring Fair, Inclusive and Accessible Justice for All Women.” The event highlighted the importance of strengthening workplace culture through awareness about the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act and promoting dignity, respect and safety in professional spaces. Dr. Purnima Arora, Deputy Secretary, CSIR, attended the event as the Chief Guest, while Social Activist and Women President of Gandhi Global Family, for Jammu Region, Dr Alka Sharma, delivered the keynote session. Scientists, researchers, administrative staff and students of the institute participated in the programme.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Purnima Arora, Chief Guest, said that International Women’s Day is more than a symbolic celebration and serves as a reminder to provide equal opportunities and a supportive environment for women. She referred to constitutional provisions such as Articles 14, 15 and 16, which guarantee equality before the law, prohibit gender-based discrimination and ensure equal opportunity in public employment. She noted that several legislations, including the POSH Act, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act and the Maternity Benefit Act, have been enacted to safeguard women’s rights and dignity. However, she emphasised that laws alone are not sufficient and society must ensure that women are empowered to use these rights responsibly and effectively. Highlighting the role of women in science and administration, Arora said that CSIR has around 10,500 employees across its laboratories, with nearly 20 percent being women, including directors, distinguished scientists and leaders in research and administration. She observed that women are increasingly contributing to innovation, research leadership and organisational management. Arora said that while significant progress has been made, there is still a long way to go in achieving true equality. She expressed hope that society would eventually reach a stage where equality becomes natural and the world celebrates a universal “day of equality” rather than focusing on gender-based observances.

Delivering the keynote session, Dr Alka Sharma emphasised that the POSH Act is not merely a legal framework but a foundation for creating a respectful workplace culture. She explained that harassment at workplaces affects not only individuals but also the reputation, productivity and innovation of institutions. Through interactive examples and discussions, she explained different forms of workplace harassment, including verbal remarks, inappropriate jokes, repeated unwanted invitations, invasion of personal space and other behaviour that may make colleagues uncomfortable. She stressed that workplace dignity, respect and safety are non-negotiable values for any progressive institution. Dr Sharma said that organisations perform better when employees feel safe, valued and respected. She also emphasised the importance of awareness, timely grievance redressal and collective responsibility in preventing harassment at workplaces.

Earlier, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR-IIIM Jammu, in his welcome address spoke at length about the evolving role of women in institutions and society. He said the occasion of International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contribution, dedication and sacrifices of women in families, organisations and nation-building. Dr. Ahmed noted that women today are making significant contributions across sectors—from grassroots labour and infrastructure work to leadership positions in academia, governance and science. Referring to the situation within the institute, he observed that the number of women researchers and scholars at CSIR-IIIM has been steadily increasing, which reflects a positive direction for both the institution and the country. He also acknowledged the role of women scientists, administrators and scholars who are shaping research and innovation. Paying tribute to women leaders, policymakers and workers who have contributed to society over the years, he said their efforts have laid a strong foundation for progress and equality. Dr. Ahmed further highlighted the institute’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace for women. He said CSIR-IIIM has been taking several steps to strengthen facilities and ensure a conducive environment for women staff and scholars. In this regard, he mentioned that the institute will soon establish a day-care facility on campus to support working mothers and has already provided dedicated rest rooms and essential amenities for women employees and scholars. Dr. Ahmed also conveyed greetings on behalf of Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh, who had visited the institute a day earlier but could not attend the event due to parliamentary commitments. The minister, he said, had extended his best wishes to the women members of the institute. He also appreciated the role of women scientists and researchers who are actively contributing to the institute’s research programmes and expressed confidence that their participation will further strengthen the institute’s academic and scientific output.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Controller of Administration, Kaushal Kumar, who appreciated the insightful session delivered by Dr Alka Sharma and the valuable remarks of the chief guest. He said that ensuring a safe and respectful workplace is a collective responsibility and a fundamental requirement for innovation and research excellence in scientific institutions. On this occasion, women staff members of the institute were also felicitated by the Director and other dignitaries in recognition of their contributions. The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr Gurleen Kour, who anchored the session and coordinated the interactions during the event.