Pens, clips, and spoons: How ABVP is training Bengal women in self-defence
Source Entity
The Indian Express
The ABVP is conducting a three-day 'Mission Sahasi' self-defence camp in Kolkata to train instructors. These trainers will subsequently teach school and college students across South Bengal using everyday objects for protection.
Mission Sahasi: Empowering Women Through Practical Self-Defence
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has initiated a strategic self-defence training program titled 'Mission Sahasi.' Held at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata from November 14 to 16, this three-day camp represents a focused effort to bolster safety awareness among young women. By prioritizing the instruction of trainers who will eventually propagate these skills to educational institutions across 20 organizational districts in South Bengal, the initiative aims to create a sustainable network of safety advocates.
The Philosophy of Everyday Tools
What distinguishes 'Mission Sahasi' from conventional martial arts training is its emphasis on utilizing common, accessible items for protection. Instructors are being trained to demonstrate how everyday objects—such as pens, clips, and spoons—can be repurposed as tools for self-defence in emergency situations. This approach reflects a pragmatic philosophy that empowers individuals to defend themselves without relying on specialized weaponry or extensive athletic conditioning, thereby lowering the barrier to entry for students in diverse academic environments.
Organizational Reach and Implementation
The scale of this operation is significant, with a planned outreach program spanning until December 22. By integrating these sessions into schools and colleges across South Bengal, the ABVP is attempting to institutionalize self-defence as a core component of student life. The program is bifurcated into indoor and outdoor modules, ensuring that participants receive both theoretical knowledge and physical practice, which is essential for developing the reflexive responses required during high-stress encounters.
Broader Implications for Student Safety
The introduction of such programs highlights a growing emphasis on physical security within the student community. As concerns regarding campus and public safety remain a priority for many families, initiatives like 'Mission Sahasi' serve to fill a perceived gap in extracurricular life. By equipping students with the psychological confidence and physical tools to handle potential threats, the ABVP is positioning itself as a proactive force in the educational landscape of West Bengal.
Historical Context and Future Trends
Historically, the RSS and its affiliates have often utilized mass-mobilization and skill-based training camps to foster organizational growth and ideological outreach. The current focus on women’s safety allows the ABVP to address a critical social concern while simultaneously strengthening its presence in the region's academic institutions. Looking forward, the success of this mission will likely depend on the retention of these instructors and the long-term engagement of the students, potentially setting a precedent for similar safety-oriented initiatives in other parts of the country.