Imphal: The Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW), in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), organised a one-day awareness programme on “Yashoda AI” today at the Jubilee Hall of D.M. College of Teacher Education, Imphal.
The programme was attended by Th. Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson, Manipur State Commission for Women; Sk. Sophia, Member, MSCW; W. Phajatombi Devi, MCS, Member Secretary, MSCW and Additional Director, Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Manipur; and Dr. Anita Kangabam, Principal-in-Charge, D.M. College of Teacher Education, as the presidium members.
Speaking on the occasion, Th. Tiningpham Monsang stated that the Manipur State Commission for Women serves as an important platform for women facing violence, discrimination, or other forms of hardship. She said the Commission regularly organises seminars and awareness programmes across the State to educate women about their constitutional and legal rights, as many are still unaware of the protections available to them.
She informed that “Yashoda AI” is a nationwide initiative launched by the National Commission for Women to promote Artificial Intelligence (AI) literacy and digital awareness among women. She noted that the programme held today is the first of its kind in Manipur under the sponsorship of the NCW.
Highlighting the objectives of the initiative, she said the programme aims to empower women by enhancing their understanding of AI, promoting digital literacy, strengthening online safety and cyber security, encouraging self-reliance through technology, and developing leadership skills among women.
She further stated that while AI offers immense opportunities for innovation and development, it also presents challenges, particularly in the form of cyber fraud and online scams. Citing examples of fraudulent calls and messages claiming that money has been deposited into bank accounts, she emphasised the need for digital awareness and vigilance. She added that the programme included sessions by resource persons, including banking professionals, who explained common cyber frauds and precautionary measures to ensure online safety.
Expressing satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of students, she said such awareness programmes play a vital role in building digital knowledge among young people, enabling them to become responsible users of technology and ambassadors of awareness within society.
Speaking at the programme, W. Phajatombi Devi highlighted that the primary responsibility of the Manipur State Commission for Women is to promote the welfare of women and address grievances relating to violence, harassment, discrimination, and violations of women’s rights. She said the Commission registers complaints received from women and takes appropriate action within its legal mandate.
She informed that the Commission exercises certain powers similar to those of a civil court within its prescribed jurisdiction and regularly conducts hearings, counselling, and mediation to resolve cases. Complex matters requiring judicial intervention are referred to the appropriate Family Courts or Criminal Courts for further legal action.
Phajatombi Devi further stated that despite facing challenges such as limited manpower and resources, the Commission continues to function effectively with the support of the Government of Manipur through Gender Budget assistance and other available resources. She added that the Commission regularly organises awareness programmes across the State on issues concerning women’s rights, safety, and empowerment.
Referring to the theme of the programme, she said Artificial Intelligence has become an integral part of modern society, particularly among the younger generation. She stressed the importance of equipping women with adequate knowledge of AI, enabling them to use digital technologies safely, responsibly, and productively while remaining alert to emerging cyber threats.
In the technical session, resource person Lamyanba Waikhom, MBA, spoke on the topic “AI in Education and Pedagogy”. He highlighted the transformative role of artificial intelligence in education and its impact on modern teaching and learning practises. The programme also attended Teachers, students and others participants.
