Vision 2031 Policy Roadmap: Kerala to be Made the Most Women-Friendly State

Key facts

• The United Democratic Front (UDF) government in Kerala proposed the Vision 2031 policy roadmap to transform the state into the most women-friendly state in India.
• The roadmap introduces the Avalkkoppam scheme to prevent domestic violence and dowry harassment and provides legal status to Jagratha Samitis (vigilant committees).
• A specialized task force and additional fast-track courts will be established to investigate crimes against children and ensure time-bound convictions under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
• The policy moots new legislation for Kerala on the lines of the Disha Act in Andhra Pradesh to prevent crimes against women and expedite trials.
• Safety initiatives include the launch of a Distress Alert App for emergencies, night-time pink buses for women, and a smart safety network of vehicles equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS).