In New Delhi, Smriti Irani, Union Minister, announced the approval of Rs 272 crore from the Ministry of Women and Child Development. This funding is designated for residential accommodations catering to girls and working women enrolled in postsecondary education programs at Delhi University. The allocation stems from the Nirbhaya Fund.
Taking to X, she stated, “The @MinistryWCD has granted Rs. 272 crore for Residential Accommodation aimed at supporting girls and working women pursuing higher education at Delhi University under the Nirbhaya Fund. Aligned with PM @NarendraModi ji’s vision of Viksit Bharat, this endeavor aims to empower working women and girls engaged in higher education. The initiative will furnish 1000 beds with heightened security, comprehensive CCTV surveillance, and gender-sensitive facilities.”
She emphasized that these funds will facilitate the provision of 1,000 beds across women’s hostels at Delhi University, enhancing security measures and providing gender-sensitive amenities. Irani had previously announced on March 7 her intention to allocate funds from the Nirbhaya Fund to support women’s dormitories at Delhi University. This announcement coincided with the Nari Shakti Conclave held at Delhi University’s north campus as part of the Vikas Bharat Ambassador initiative.
Asserting that women’s safety and empowerment are paramount to the Modi government, Irani stated, “This endeavor will contribute significantly to empowering female students and working women pursuing higher education. Additionally, CCTV surveillance will be bolstered within the hostels.”
Furthermore, she disclosed plans for the construction of a hostel accommodating 530 beds for male students, at a cost of Rs 289.61 crore. “The cornerstone for both these hostels was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit as the chief guest at Delhi University’s centenary year celebrations,” she added.