Tirath calls for re-doubling IBSA efforts to increase women's participation in socio-eco development

Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath on Thursday called for re-doubling India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA) efforts to increase women's participation in socio-eco development in these countries.

Addressing the IBSA, Women's forum here, Tirath stressed the need for women empowerment at a greater level and asked Brazil and South Africa to enhance mutual cooperation by sharing views on promoting gender equality.

Expressing concern over crimes against women and children, she said creating awareness at the grassroots level is must.

Stating that India is committed to promote gender equality, Tirath added the government is providing safe environment for women at work places as sustainable development is linked with equality.

An initiative launched under the People-to-People's Forum by the Heads of the IBSA States during the 2nd IBSA Summit in South Africa 2007, the Women"s Forum is a unique platform of co-operation bringing together the countries of India, Brazil and South Africa with the objective of promoting gender equality and empowerment.

The forum facilitates the process of people to people consultation and sharing of best practices in order to strengthen partnerships among the three countries.