The Institute of Town Planners India (ITPI), Maharashtra Regional Chapter (MRC), hosted a Panel Discussion recently under the theme ‘Women Shaping Cities: Safety, Leadership, and Inclusive Development’ The event saw active participation from urban planners, civic officials, academics, professionals, and students. Sujit Rodge, Chairman of ITPI MRC, welcomed the attendees and introduced the esteemed panel, including Chief Guest Rashmitha Rao, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, along with Dr Yogesh M Deshpande, VNIT Nagpur, Dr Pooja M Pathak, Principal, LAD smt RP College for Women, and Dr Vandana S Sharma Director, KNVS Incorporation.

 

He emphasised gender-inclusive urban planning and ITPI’s commitment to advancing town planning education. Chief guest Rashmitha Rao, IPS, DSP, outlined key women’s safety initiatives in Nagpur, including the Dial 112 emergency response system, Damini Squad, all-women police patrol, Pink Investigation Teams, handling crimes against women, and the Kaka Programme, self-defense and legal awareness workshops in schools and colleges. Dr Yogesh Deshpande highlighted the role of psychological safety and societal perceptions in shaping women’s experiences in cities.

 

Dr Pooja Pathak discussed strategies for empowering women through education, leadership opportunities, and exposure to diverse environments. Vandana Sharma underscored the role of marketplaces in supporting women entrepreneurs. Dr Sarika Bahadure, the session’s moderator, steered discussions on women’s role in urban planning, safety concerns, leadership, and inclusive governance. A session addressed topics like women’s participation in policymaking, urban transformation, mentorship programmes, and cultural perceptions of safety. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Sanjay Barai, Secretary, ITPI MRC acknowledging the contributions of panelists and participants. Vandana Khante served as the rapporteur, and Suraksha BN anchored the event. This discussion marked a significant step in promoting gender-inclusive urban planning and fostering safe, resilient, and equitable cities for the future.