Port Blair: In a bid to strengthen the safety net for vulnerable women and children, the Directorate of Social Welfare has urged residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to make use of the Government of India’s dedicated emergency helplines—Women Helpline 181 and Child Helpline 1098—which provide round-the-clock assistance to those facing distress, violence, abuse or exploitation.
Operating 24 hours a day throughout the year from the Women and Child Development (WCD) Control Room at VIP Road, these helplines serve as a crucial link between victims and essential support services. The facility is designed to ensure the safety, protection and well-being of women and children while safeguarding their rights.
Officials said the helplines respond to cases involving violence, abuse, neglect and other emergencies, connecting callers with the Police, One Stop Centre, hospitals, the District Legal Services Authority and other relevant agencies. In addition to emergency intervention, the service also provides counselling, guidance and information on government welfare schemes and protection mechanisms available for women and children.
Women and children in need of assistance can access support at any time by dialling 181 or 1098. They may also approach the WCD Control Room near Narayan Guru Mandir, VIP Road, for assistance in resolving grievances, family-related issues and other concerns affecting their safety and welfare. The Directorate has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that timely help remains accessible to women and children across urban, rural and tribal areas of the Islands.
Alternative Opening:nA single phone call can often make the difference between vulnerability and protection. To ensure that women and children facing distress receive immediate assistance, the Directorate of Social Welfare is continuing to provide round-the-clock support through the dedicated Women Helpline 181 and Child Helpline 1098 across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.”
