A self-defence training camp was organised at the girls’ hostel of New Satara College of Engineering and Management, Korti (Pandharpur) with the explicit aim of strengthening women’s safety and confidence. Coordinated by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti, the initiative drew a large participation of young women and focused on equipping them with practical skills for everyday security and resilience.

The structured curriculum integrated situational awareness, boundary-setting, basic defensive techniques, and guidance on seeking timely help, all delivered through demonstration, practice, and reflection. Instructors emphasised de-escalation, presence of mind, and the responsible use of learned techniques, ensuring participants developed confidence alongside a clear understanding of personal safety ethics.

Participants reported feeling more prepared to navigate public and campus spaces, noting that consistent practice improved their response time and calmness under pressure. Faculty members and hostel staff observed heightened attentiveness to safety protocols and peer support, indicating that the training fostered a culture of collective responsibility.

Community stakeholders highlighted that such programmes are most effective when they blend skill-building with values of compassion, courage, and disciplineprinciples shared across the dharmic traditions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. In this spirit, the camp reinforced a unifying message: safeguarding the dignity and autonomy of young women strengthens the well-being of the entire community.

By situating self-defence within a broader framework of education, mentorship, and mutual respect, the Pandharpur camp serves as a replicable model for institutions across India. It demonstrates that women’s safety is not only a matter of technique but also of awareness, solidarity, and the shared commitment to create secure, inclusive learning environments.

Inspired by this post on Hindu Jagruti Samiti.