FLO Pune, under the leadership of Chairperson Ms. Poonam Kochhar, organised a legal awareness session titled “Know Your Law – It Is for Your Protection” at Sinhagad Nagari Patsanstha for women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), with the objective of strengthening legal literacy, financial awareness and women’s empowerment. The session was led by Noopur Pawar and focused on equipping women with practical knowledge of their legal rights, available protections and resources to support their personal and entrepreneurial journeys.
The session covered key legislation, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH), highlighting women’s rights to safety, dignity and protection at home and in the workplace.
Participants also received guidance on business compliance requirements, including MSME Udyam registration, GST and FSSAI registration or licensing for food businesses. Information on the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana and financial support opportunities available through Self-Help Groups helped participants understand avenues for accessing government assistance.
The session further addressed personal and financial safety, emphasising the importance of protecting confidential information, never sharing OTPs and avoiding signing blank cheques. Participants were also informed about essential support systems, including Women’s Helpline 181, emergency helpline 112, District Legal Services Authorities and One Stop Centres (Sakhi Kendras).
Through this initiative, FICCI FLO Pune Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots women’s empowerment by making essential legal and financial information more accessible. The session reinforced the importance of legal awareness in enabling women to make informed decisions, safeguard their rights and pursue greater financial independence.
The session reached 15 women from Self-Help Groups, enhancing awareness of legal protections, business compliance, government schemes and support services. It encouraged women to make informed decisions and take confident steps towards safety and economic self-reliance.