Bhubaneswar: It may be the season of love but that does not stop couples from heading for divorce. In an attempt to prevent future husbands and wives from separating, the govt is planning to open pre-marriage counselling centres, deputy chief minister Pravati Parida said on Tuesday.
Speaking at the 32nd foundation day ceremony of State Commission for Women (SCW), Parida said the counselling centres will be called ‘Mother’s Court’ or ‘Maa ra Chhata’.
“We are thankful to chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Vijaya Rahatkar, for her proposal, which the state govt is going to implement,” Parida said.
The deputy CM said there are various reasons for increasing divorce cases or marital discord among young couples. To help resolve such issues, the govt aims to integrate trained mental health professionals in these counselling centres, offering services such as conflict resolution, emotional well-being, and support for couples.
Parida further mentioned that awareness will be created regarding married life. Village-level meetings will be held in this regard, she said.
The deputy CM emphasised the importance of women being aware of their rights to achieve empowerment and development. “Women today are proving their skills and abilities in various fields. It is essential for both the govt and society to work together to ensure their rights are respected and upheld. The main aim of the Odisha State Women’s Commission is to promote social, economic, and legal empowerment of grassroots women,” Parida pointed out.
Speaking on the occasion, NCW chairperson Rahatkar lauded the initiative to launch a state-level marriage counselling programme in Odisha.