NATIONAL: Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). She will be the 9th Chairperson of NCW.

During her tenure as Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women (2016-2021), Rahatkar spearheaded initiatives such as “Sakshama” (support for acid attack survivors), “Prajwala” (linking self-help groups to central government schemes), and “Suhita” (24×7 helpline service for women). She also worked on legal reforms focusing on issues like POCSO, anti-triple talaq cells, and anti-human trafficking units. Rahatkar also introduced digital literacy programs and launched a publication named “Saad” dedicated to women’s issues.

As the Mayor of Chatrapati Sambhajinagar from 2007 to 2010, Rahatkar implemented significant developmental projects related to healthcare and infrastructure.

Rahatkar holds a bachelor’s degree in Physics and a master’s degree in History from the University of Pune. She has authored several books, including ‘Vidhilikhit’ (on women’s legal issues) and ‘Aurangabad: Leading to Wide Roads’. Her contributions to women’s empowerment have earned her recognition, including the National Law Award and the Savitribai Phule Award from a national literary council.

Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha congratulated Vijaya Rahatkar on her appointment, writing, ‘Warmest congratulations to Smt. Vijaya Rahatkar ji on becoming Chairperson of National Commission for Women. Your tireless efforts for women’s rights will undoubtedly propel #NCW forward.