Statement by India under Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women Panel 2: COVID-19 and women’s rights at the 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020) delivered by Ms. Mini Devi Kumam, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 14 July 2020) 

Mr. Vice President,

We welcome the convening of this panel discussion which emphasizes on Covid-19 and women’s rights. We thank the panelists for their valuable presentations on the theme.

Mr. Vice President,

2. Considering that women are the most adversely affected during the pandemic, the National Commission for Women of India has been conducting review meetings with law enforcing agencies to update SOPs and to respond promptly on issues related to domestic violence and cyber-crimes. Sessions with relevant prison authorities are going on to assess the Commission’s advisory and recommendation on improving the condition of jails for women.

Mr. Vice President,

3. We agree that the pandemic also has thrown up opportunities for women. Women Self Help Groups in India proved a key player in combatting the pandemic in rural areas. Over 20 thousand such groups in India contributed in augmenting masks, sanitizers, hand washes, financial services, awareness campaigns on the pandemic while running thousands of community kitchens and help desks. Our financial stimulus in response to the pandemic is aligned towards inclusive and sustainable development. The package also aims at addressing negative impacts on women entrepreneurs who are running small and medium enterprises.

Mr. Vice President,

4. The challenges and opportunities for women from the pandemic are still unfolding. We would request for more suggestions from the panelists on how women could benefit the most from the current crisis.

Thank you.