ICAR-RCER Patna Organises POSH Act Awareness Programme to Promote Workplace Safety

Reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and workplace dignity, ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region organised “POSH ACT 2013: Sensitization and Awareness Programme (Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace)” at its campus on March 26, 2026.

The programme aimed to sensitise the officers and employees about legal safeguards, professional ethics and the collective responsibility of ensuring a safe and respectful workplace environment. The event was conducted under the aegis of the Institute’s Internal Committee.

The Chief guest, Smt. Suman Singh, Secretary of Sakhi NGO, Bihar who spoke on gender sensitivity, women’s rights and the importance of creating safe and inclusive workplaces. She underlined the role of awareness and prompt redressal mechanisms in empowering women and ensuring justice.

Dr. Anup Das, Director of the institute, chaired the programme and emphasised the importance of maintaining dignity, equality, and mutual respect in professional spaces. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the need for continuous awareness and institutional accountability in preventing workplace harassment.

Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyaya, Head, DLWM, highlighted the importance of understanding the limitations of conversation in professional settings. He emphasised maintaining appropriate boundaries and sensitivity to ensure respectful and effective communication in the workplace.

The programme was coordinated by Dr. Shivani, Presiding Officer of the Internal Committee, who welcomed the participants and elaborated on the objectives of the awareness initiative. She stressed the significance of understanding the provisions of the POSH Act, 2013, and the role of employees in upholding workplace ethics.

During the programme, detailed information was shared regarding the provisions of the POSH Act, complaint mechanisms, and the use of the SHE-BOX portal for reporting grievances.

The sessions focused on enhancing awareness about workplace rights, responsibilities and preventive measures. "The officers and employees from Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Buxar; Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Ramgarh; and the FSRCHPR, Ranchi also joined the programme through online mode. The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Arti Kumari", said, Sh. Umesh Kumar Mishra, Member Secretary, Media, ICAR-RCER, Patna.