On October 19, 2024, Mrs. Vijaya Rahatkar was appointed as the 9th Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW) by the Government of India. She takes over the role immediately after the term of Rekha Sharma, which ended on August 6, 2024. Alongside her appointment, Dr. Archana Majumdar has also been appointed as a member of the Commission.
Key Details of the Appointment
- Immediate Effect: Vijaya Rahatkar’s appointment is effective immediately for a three-year term or until she turns 65, whichever comes first.
- Previous Experience: Mrs. Rahatkar served as the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women from 2016 to 2021, implementing various initiatives to empower women.
Initiatives Led by Vijaya Rahatkar
| Initiative Name | Description |
| Sakshama | A support program for acid attack survivors. |
| Prajwala | Links self-help groups to central government schemes. |
| Suhita | Provides a 24×7 helpline service for women. |
Background of the National Commission for Women
The National Commission for Women is a statutory body established in January 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990. The Commission aims to protect and promote women’s rights in India.
Functions of the NCW
- Review Laws: Evaluates provisions related to women’s rights in the constitution and other laws.
- Advisory Role: Suggests measures for new laws and advises the government on women’s policy matters.
- Grievance Redressal: Works on resolving grievances related to women.
Composition of the NCW
The NCW consists of a Chairperson, five members, and a Member-Secretary. At least one member should belong to Scheduled Castes and one to Scheduled Tribes.
Chairpersons of the National Commission for Women
| Serial Number | Chairperson | Tenure |
| 1 | Ms. Jayanti Patnaik | February 3, 1992 – January 30, 1995 |
| 2 | Dr. V. Mohini Giri | July 21, 1995 – July 20, 1998 |
| 3 | Ms. Vibha Parthasarathi | January 18, 1999 – January 17, 2002 |
| 4 | Dr. Poornima Advani | January 25, 2002 – January 24, 2005 |
| 5 | Dr. Girija Vyas | February 16, 2005 – February 15, 2008 |
| Dr. Girija Vyas | April 9, 2008 – April 8, 2011 | |
| 6 | Ms. Mamta Sharma | August 2, 2011 – August 1, 2014 |
| 7 | Ms. Lalitha Kumaramangalam | September 29, 2014 – September 28, 2017 |
| Ms. Rekha Sharma (Acting) | September 29, 2017 – August 6, 2018 | |
| 8 | Ms. Rekha Sharma | August 7, 2018 – August 6, 2021 |
| Ms. Rekha Sharma | August 7, 2021 – August 6, 2024 | |
| 9 | Mrs. Vijaya Rahatkar | October 19, 2024 – Present |
Chairperson of National Commission for Women News Summary
- Appointment Date: October 19, 2024
- New Chairperson: Vijaya Rahatkar
- Term Length: Three years or until age 65
- New Member: Dr. Archana Majumdar
Previous Roles: Chairperson of Maharashtra State Commission for Women (2016-2021)
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
Mrs. Vijaya Rahatkar has been appointed as the new Chairperson.
The Chairperson serves a three-year term or until they turn 65.
She was the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Commission for Women from 2016 to 2021.
Currently, Ms. Delina Khongdup and Mrs. Mamta Kumari are also members.
The NCW reviews laws, advises the government on policies, and addresses grievances related to women.
The NCW was established in January 1992.
Its main goal is to protect and promote women’s rights in India.