Officials highlighted legal rights, cybercrime prevention, child marriage laws and government welfare schemes during an awareness programme for students
A legal awareness and assistance programme was organised for students at Vivekananda Pre-University College in Tumakuru to educate young people about legal rights, cybercrime prevention, child marriage laws, women's protection measures and government welfare schemes. Officials from the Women's Empowerment Unit and allied departments emphasised the importance of education, discipline and awareness in building a responsible and informed society.
Tumakuru: Students must give equal importance to education, discipline and time management to achieve success in life, said District Women Empowerment Unit District Mission Coordinator Shashidhar H.G. while addressing a legal awareness and assistance programme organised for students at Vivekananda Pre-University College in Tumakuru.
The programme was conducted on Wednesday through the joint initiative of the District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department, Women Empowerment Unit and Vivekananda Pre-University College. The event focused on legal literacy, women's rights, cyber safety and various government welfare schemes aimed at empowering youth.
Importance Of Education, Discipline And Time Management
Inaugurating the programme, Shashidhar H.G. stressed that education alone is not sufficient for personal and professional growth. He said students should also cultivate discipline, punctuality and a strong sense of responsibility.
He informed participants about various legal safeguards available to women and children and explained the avenues through which citizens can obtain free legal assistance when required.
"Education, discipline and proper time management play a vital role in shaping the future of students and helping them become responsible citizens."
He also highlighted the services provided by the District Legal Services Authority and other legal aid centres that offer free legal support to eligible individuals.
Awareness On Child Marriage Laws And Women's Rights
Gender Specialist Rashmi R. Maitri of the Women Empowerment Unit spoke about the provisions and amendments related to the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, along with subsequent updates introduced in 2018 and 2025.
She explained that a marriage involving a girl below 18 years of age or a boy below 21 years is considered child marriage and is prohibited under Indian law.
Rashmi remarked that child marriage negatively affects education, health and social development and warned students about the legal consequences associated with the practice.
"Child marriage is not only harmful to the future of young people but is also a punishable offence under Indian law."
Cybercrime Prevention And Online Safety Discussed
Prime Minister's Matru Vandana Programme Coordinator Ranganath H.L. delivered a session on cybercrime awareness and digital safety.
He explained that cybercrime includes illegal activities carried out through computers, mobile devices and the internet, including online banking fraud, hacking, identity theft, data breaches and social media-related harassment.
Students were advised to remain cautious while sharing personal information online and to immediately report cyber fraud.
"Victims of cybercrime should immediately contact the Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 or register complaints through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal."
Information Shared On Senior Citizens Helpline And Welfare Services
Women Empowerment Unit Accountant Poojashree S. provided information about the Senior Citizens Helpline 14567, a free national service launched by the Government of India to support the welfare and safety of elderly citizens.
She explained that senior citizens can use the helpline to seek assistance related to abuse, neglect, financial difficulties, health emergencies and other challenges encountered in daily life.
The session also highlighted the support services and facilities available through various government welfare institutions.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Benefits Explained To Students
Program Assistant Ranjitha B.R. spoke about the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, one of the Government of India's flagship small savings schemes aimed at securing the financial future of girl children.
She explained that the scheme supports savings for higher education and future marriage expenses while encouraging parents to develop long-term financial planning habits.
The session also focused on children's rights and the importance of ensuring educational opportunities for girls.
College Principal Presides Over Awareness Programme
The programme was presided over by Vivekananda Pre-University College Principal Nagaraju V. Faculty members, administrative officials, management representatives, lecturers and students participated in the event.
Lecturer Lokeshwar B.V. and other staff members were present during the programme, which aimed to strengthen legal awareness and social responsibility among students.
The initiative forms part of ongoing efforts by the Women's Empowerment Unit and district authorities to promote legal literacy, gender equality and awareness of government welfare programmes among young people in Tumakuru district.
