Nongpoh, May 1: In a significant step towards strengthening women’s empowerment and social support systems, the first-ever Gender Resource Centre (GRC) in Meghalaya was inaugurated at Patharkhmah under Jirang C&RD Block in Ri Bhoi district on April 30.

The initiative aims to support women, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds, vulnerable families, and young girls, by providing access to information, legal awareness, and essential services. The centre has been established to ensure that women are better informed about their rights, entitlements, and government welfare schemes.

Through the GRC, women can access guidance on legal protections, including how to approach authorities such as the police, One Stop Centres, and legal services in cases of abuse or violence. The facility will also offer awareness on health and well-being, along with temporary shelter support during times of crisis.

The centre has been set up by the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society under the National Rural Livelihood Mission’s gender intervention programme. It will be managed and operated by the Shithai Shrup Cluster Level Federation Women Cooperative Society Ltd, Patharkhmah, serving as the nodal Cluster Level Federation (CLF).

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, Sub-Divisional Officer of Patharkhmah Civil Sub-Division Chatanya Awasthi, and Block Development Officer of Jirang C&RD Block Dr. P.R. Hajong, along with village heads, officials from various government departments, MSRLS representatives, and members of SHGs and community organisations.

Officials highlighted that the GRC will serve as a crucial platform for empowering women at the grassroots level, improving access to justice, and strengthening community support mechanisms across the region.