The Punjab Government launched ‘Project Hifazat’ on International Women’s Day 2025 to empower women and children facing violence. The initiative aims to improve response mechanisms, provide a safe environment for reporting domestic violence and harassment, and ensure swift assistance through the 181 helpline.
Objectives of Project Hifazat
- Encourage victims to report abuse without fear.
- Ensure last-mile connectivity to provide integrated support.
- Streamline coordination among departments to ensure swift and effective responses.
- Strengthen safety measures for women and children, creating a safer and more supportive environment across the state.
Key Highlights of Project Hifazat
1. Helpline & Response Initiative
The 181 women and child helpline will operate 24×7 under Mission Shakti and Mission Vatsalya.
It will provide both emergency and non-emergency services, ensuring immediate assistance and guidance.
Calls will be categorized into:
- Emergency cases- Transferred to the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112) for immediate intervention.
- Non-emergency cases- Directed to One Stop Centres (OSCs), District Child Protection Units (DCPUs), and district hubs for women’s empowerment for counseling and legal aid.
- Informational calls- Addressed by helpline personnel with guidance on government schemes and support services.
2. Multi-Agency Collaboration
Project Hifazat aims to strengthen coordination between key departments:
- Punjab Police
- Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development
- Department of Health and Family Welfare
This collaboration will ensure comprehensive victim support, including:
- Rescue operations
- Legal assistance
- Medical aid
- Psycho-social counseling
Dedicated rescue vehicles will be deployed in every district to provide on-ground support.
3. Support Services & Implementation
Deputy Commissioners will supervise the project, with District Program Officers (DPOs) overseeing its execution.
A state-of-the-art control room in Chandigarh will:
- Manage call traffic
- Disseminate information about government schemes
- Generate reports for monitoring and evaluation