Planning Commission for End of Female Foeticide

New Delhi 29 October 2013: Various issues relating to ending of gender based inequities, discrimination and all forms of violence against girls and women came up for discussion at meeting of the Planning Commission member Dr. Syeda Hameed and the visiting French Minister for Women’s Rights and Government Spokesperson, Ms. Najat Vallaud-Belkacem.

During the discussions Dr. Syeda Hameed pointed out that the Indian government is serious to end the errant practice of female foeticide and the resultant skewed sex ratio. Planning Commission supports various programmes taken up for this purpose. She said, the 12th Plan recognizes that Trafficking of women and children is a gross violation of human rights. The Government will intensify its efforts to prevent trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation.

The leader of the French delegation Ms. Najat Vallaud-Belkacem pointed out as to how the French government had tackled certain problems relating to women in their country through strict implementation of laws.

Ms. Sindhushree Khullar, Secretary, Planning Commission and other senior officials of the commission participated in the discussions.

Relations between India and France have traditionally been close and friendly. India was the first Asian country that President Francois Hollande chose for a bilateral visit, after his election, in February, 2013. This has been followed by a visit of French Minister for Women’s Rights and Government Spokesperson with a delegation to India. During the visit, the delegation has taken keen interest in the Indian Planning Process and especially importance attached to women and children.CCI Newswire