KU seminar highlights critical socio-cultural aspects of women’s sexual, reproductive health

Srinagar: To deliberate upon issues impacting the well-being of women and to focus on the socio-cultural dimensions of women’s sexual and reproductive health in Kashmir, the Centre for Women’s Studies and Research (CWSR), Kashmir University (KU) in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), New Delhi on Thursday inaugurated a national seminar.
According to a statement issued from Centre for Public Relations Office University of Kashmir, Srinagar titled ‘Socio-Cultural Dimensions of Sexual and Reproductive Health of Women in Kashmir’; the two-day seminar will highlight topics crucial to women’s health. During the inaugural session, Vice Chancellor, KU, Prof Nilofer Khan highlighted the varsity’s commitment to encourage comprehensive discussions and initiatives crucial to improve women’s health particularly in Kashmir.
Prof Nilofer Khan said, “The CWSR is bridging the gap between communities, academia and policy-makers by sensitising masses about their rights and providing a platform whereby issues concerning women are discussed and recommendations are pitched for larger benefit of the society.”
Professor (Emeritus) and former Director, Centre for Women Studies and Development, Punjab University, Dr Pam Rajput in her keynote address delved into the global context of women’s sexual and reproductive health.
She emphasised the global representation of this issue and acknowledged the successes despite delays in addressing these concerns. Prof Pam Rajput also discussed the impact of cultural norms on women’s sexual and reproductive health in the Indian context.
Professor at the School of Gender and Development Studies, IGNOU, New Delhi, Prof Savita Singh underscored the influential role of patriarchy in shaping women’s health in India. She also shared insights from her book highlighting its profound relevance to the theme of the seminar.
Head, Department of Philosophy and Women Studies, Lucknow University, Prof Rakesh Chandra in his address shared details about his ongoing projects targeting women’s health and also discussed the utilitarian framework within the context of sexual and reproductive health.
While introducing his project ‘Care,’ Prof Rakesh emphasised its critical significance in analysing care for pregnant women and highlighted the practical aspects of his research.
Registrar, Kashmir University, Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir said the participation and expertise will be instrumental in addressing the nuanced complexities surrounding women’s sexual and reproductive health in Kashmir.
“There is a pressing need for comprehensive research, understanding and prioritisation of women’s health concerns in the specific context of Kashmir,” Dr Nisar added. Outlining the objectives of the seminar, Coordinator, CWSR, KU, Dr Roshan Ara said the socio-cultural dimensions of sexual and reproductive health of women in Kashmir are a vital and underexplored area of study.
“The seminar will try to investigate the complex interplay between culture, society and women’s sexual and reproductive health in the context of Kashmir,” she added.
The vote of thanks was hidden by Dr. Shazia.
Deans of different schools, heads of various departments, officers from KU administration, officials form KU proctorial wing, faculty members, scholars and students attended the inaugural session.