UN agencies kick off 16-day campaign in Bhopal against gender based violence

The event, hosted at the UN House, brought together UN Women, UNICEF, UNFPA, UNDP and the World Health Organization, along with young participants from civil society organisations and RKSK volunteers.

This year’s theme focuses on UNiTE for Digital Safety.

Addressing the gathering, Pranay Nagvanshi, Superintendent of Police, Cyber Cell, Bhopal, urged young people to “search instead of scroll,” emphasising the need to use the internet as a tool for learning rather than passive consumption.

He highlighted helpline 1930 for reporting cybercrimes and advised youth to avoid interacting with unknown individuals on social media. Nagvanshi also responded to questions from participants, citing real-life examples of digital risks.

Anil Gulati, Chief (a.i.), UNICEF Madhya Pradesh, said it was crucial for young people to understand technology, use it responsibly, and stand against any form of online abuse.

“We need to unite for digital safety,” he added.

Joyatri Ray, State Lead and Policy Specialist, UN Women, described the youth-led gathering as “a powerful beginning” to the 16-day campaign.

She said the collective effort of all UN agencies strengthens the commitment to end violence in all forms.

Promoting respectful online behaviour and combating cyberbullying and digital abuse, she said, would help shape a safer and more inclusive digital environment for women and girls.

UNFPA State Programme Officer Anurag Sonwalker noted that as virtual and physical realities increasingly merge, young people must use digital tools carefully to help ensure safer online spaces. He also stressed the importance of fostering responsible mobile and internet use among children.

Dr Abhishek Jain, SMO (Transition) – MP, WHO (National Polio Surveillance Network), underlined the need to rely on credible sources of information, particularly on health matters. UNDP State Programme Manager Naman Gupta spoke about UNDP’s youth strategy and the role of young people in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable lifestyles. UNICEF SPSP Specialist Pooja Singh engaged with participants on gender and digital safety.

Youth volunteers from RKSK and civil society groups under the Safe City Programme and PHIA shared the online safety challenges they observe within their peer groups and affirmed their commitment to adopting safer digital practices.