Gandhinagar: Marking 10 years of dedicated service, the Gujarat government’s Abhayam 181 Women Helpline continues to be a lifeline for women, girls, adolescents, and children across the state. Launched in March 2015 under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the helpline has assisted over 16.58 lakh women in times of crisis, providing timely protection and emotional support.
Key Achievements Over the Decade:
- 16,58,892 women assisted through the helpline since inception
- 2.09 lakh cases resolved on the spot via 59 dedicated Abhayam rescue vans
- 3.31 lakh women supported by rescue vans operating 24×7 statewide
- Over 2.73 lakh downloads of the user-friendly Abhayam 181 mobile app, launched in 2018
Round-the-Clock Rescue Services for Immediate Help
To ensure rapid response, 59 rescue vans operate across Gujarat, equipped with trained counsellors ready to offer on-the-spot assistance. Notably, 12 vans serve Ahmedabad city under the Safe City Project. These vans have played a crucial role in resolving a majority of distress calls, providing direct intervention and safe relocation whenever needed.
Strong Financial Backing Reflecting Government Commitment
The Gujarat government has demonstrated unwavering support by steadily increasing the helpline’s budget allocation over recent years:
- ₹10.50 crore in 2022–23
- ₹12.50 crore in 2023–24
- ₹14.78 crore in 2024–25
- ₹15.02 crore sanctioned for 2025–26
This cumulative funding of over ₹37.78 crore enables continuous expansion and enhancement of the helpline’s services.
Comprehensive Support for Women’s Diverse Issues
Abhayam 181 offers assistance for a wide range of challenges including domestic violence, harassment, cybercrimes, financial exploitation, female foeticide, child marriage, substance abuse recovery, and more. The helpline also connects callers to local support services like women’s police stations, legal aid, family counselling, and protection officers, ensuring holistic care for women in need.
Collaboration for Excellence in Service Delivery
The helpline operates through a joint effort of the Women and Child Development Department, Home Department, GVK EMRI, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, ensuring professional and compassionate handling of every call.
Deputy Chief Minister and Women & Child Development Minister, Bhupendra Patel, remarked, “Abhayam 181 has become a beacon of hope and strength for women across Gujarat. Our government is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for women to live with dignity and confidence.”
Women in distress can reach out anytime by dialing 181 or through the Abhayam 181 mobile app available on major app stores.
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A Message of Strength and Safety
Deputy Chief Minister and Women & Child Development Minister Bhupendra Patel praised the helpline’s impact, stating, “Abhayam 181 has been a beacon of hope for countless women in Gujarat. Our government remains steadfast in creating a safe environment where women can live with dignity, security, and confidence.”
Women in distress can access support anytime by calling 181 or through the Abhayam 181 app.
