Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar takes over as 9th chairperson of National Commission for Women – Times of India

Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar appointed as Chairperson of the National Commission for Women

NEW DELHI: Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar has been named the ninth chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), taking over from Rekha Sharma. The appointment, made under Section 3 of the National Commission for Women Act, 1990, is for a three-year term or until Rahatkar reaches the age of 65, whichever occurs first.
Rahatkar’s tenure will commence immediately, and the announcement will be published in the Gazette of India.
Alongside Rahatkar’s appointment, the ministry of women and child development has also officially designated Archana Majumdar as a member of the NCW for a three-year term. The NCW, a statutory body, is tasked with advancing women’s rights and reviewing the constitutional and legal safeguards provided for women.
According to the women and child development ministry, Rahatkar has exhibited strong leadership skills throughout her various political and social roles. During her time as the chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women (2016-2021), she initiated programs such as “Sakshama” for acid attack survivors, “Prajwala” to connect self-help groups with Central government schemes, and “Suhita,” a 24/7 helpline for women.
Rahatkar also focused on legal reforms related to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO), anti-triple talaq cells, and anti-human trafficking units. Additionally, she introduced digital literacy programs and launched a publication called “Saad” that focuses on women’s issues.
As the mayor of Chatrapati Sambhajinagar from 2007 to 2010, Rahatkar implemented significant developmental projects in healthcare and infrastructure. She holds a bachelor’s degree in physics and a master’s degree in history from the University of Pune.
Rahatkar has also authored several books, including “Vidhilikhit” and “Aurangabad: Leading to Wide Roads.” Her efforts in women’s empowerment have been recognized with awards such as the National Law Award and the Savitribai Phule Award from a national literary council.