Manipur hosted its first NCW-supported Yashoda AI awareness programme, focusing on AI literacy, digital safety and cyber security to empower women through responsible technology use.
Imphal, July 22: The Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW), in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), on Wednesday organised the State's first awareness programme under the Yashoda AI initiative, aimed at improving artificial intelligence literacy, digital awareness and cyber safety among women.
The one-day programme was held at the Jubilee Hall of D.M. College of Teacher Education in Imphal and brought together teachers, students and other participants to discuss the opportunities and risks associated with the growing use of artificial intelligence in everyday life.
Addressing the inaugural session, MSCW Chairperson Th. Tiningpham Monsang said the Commission continues to work towards protecting the rights of women by providing support to those facing violence, discrimination and other forms of hardship. She said many women remain unaware of their constitutional and legal rights, making awareness campaigns an important part of the Commission's work across the State.
She informed that Yashoda AI is a nationwide initiative of the National Commission for Women designed to promote AI literacy and digital awareness among women. According to her, the programme held in Imphal marks the first Yashoda AI awareness programme organised in Manipur with support from the NCW.
Monsang said the initiative seeks to strengthen women's understanding of artificial intelligence while encouraging digital literacy, online safety and cyber security awareness. It also aims to promote technology-driven self-reliance and develop leadership skills among women in an increasingly digital society.
She noted that although artificial intelligence offers significant opportunities for innovation and development, it has also created new challenges, particularly in the form of cyber fraud and online scams. Referring to fraudulent phone calls and messages that falsely claim money has been credited to bank accounts, she urged participants to remain cautious while using digital platforms.
The awareness programme included expert sessions by resource persons, including banking professionals, who explained common cyber fraud techniques and shared practical measures that individuals can adopt to protect themselves while conducting online transactions.
Monsang expressed satisfaction over the active participation of students, stating that awareness initiatives of this nature help young people become informed users of technology who can also spread digital safety awareness within their communities.
Speaking at the programme, W. Phajatombi Devi, Member Secretary of the Manipur State Commission for Women and Additional Director of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, said the Commission's primary responsibility is to safeguard the welfare of women and address complaints related to violence, harassment, discrimination and violations of women's rights.
She said the Commission receives complaints from women and initiates action within the legal framework available to it. Besides conducting hearings, counselling and mediation, the Commission exercises certain powers similar to those of a civil court within its prescribed jurisdiction. Cases requiring judicial intervention are referred to the appropriate Family Courts or Criminal Courts, she added.
Phajatombi Devi said the Commission continues to discharge its responsibilities despite constraints such as limited manpower and resources, with support from 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 relating to women's rights, safety and empowerment.
Referring to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, she said AI has become an integral part of modern life, especially among younger generations. She stressed that women should be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to use AI tools safely, responsibly and productively while remaining alert to evolving cyber threats.
The programme also featured a technical session by resource person Lamyanba Waikhom, who spoke on "AI in Education and Pedagogy." He discussed the expanding role of artificial intelligence in transforming teaching methods, learning experiences and educational practices.
The inaugural session was attended by MSCW Member Sk. Sophia, Member Secretary W. Phajatombi Devi, Principal-in-Charge of D.M. College of Teacher Education Dr. Anita Kangabam and other dignitaries.
