Goa government continues to run Veerjyoti Puraskars for women and girls who show outstanding courage against harassment, violence, or atrocities. This scheme honors two recipients each year with a cash prize of ₹20,000 and a formal scroll of appreciation to celebrate their bravery.
Launched by the Directorate of Women and Child Development (DW&CD) in 2016, this scheme highlights those who successfully fight for their dignity and safety. Each year, the scheme identifies two individuals who have shown remarkable courage at home, at work, or anywhere in the public sphere.
Veerjyoti Puraskars
This scheme rewards women and girls across Goa for their exceptional bravery. The Directorate of Women and Child Development (DW&CD) started this scheme to recognize those who stand up against injustice and protect dignity in difficult situations.
The award is not just a symbol but a measure that highlights the importance of presence of mind, social responsibility, and courage to act and speak against unfair practices. Women who receive this honor inspire others in their communities to stand up for what is right.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Veerjyoti Puraskars |
|---|---|
| Level | State |
| Target Beneficiary | Individual |
| State | Goa |
| Department | Women and Child Development Department |
| Award Benefit | ₹20,000 and a Citation |
| Selection Count | 2 persons per year |
Selected awardees receive the following honors:
- A cash prize of ₹20,000.
- A formal scroll or citation recognizing their bravery.
- The awards are presented annually during the Republic Day ceremony on January 26th.
You are eligible to apply if you meet the following criteria:
- You are a woman or a girl residing in Goa.
- You have demonstrated exceptional bravery and courage.
- You have actively stood against atrocities, violence, or harassment-whether it happened to you personally or to another woman or girl.
- Your actions to protect dignity and respect occurred in a domestic, professional, or public setting.
Example: Suppose Priya, a resident of Panaji, intervened to stop a public incident of harassment against a stranger; her courage in defending that person's dignity makes her a suitable candidate for this honor.
To apply, you should follow these steps:
STEP 1 - Visit the official website at dip.goa.gov.in/igood/ and download the application form for Veerjyoti Puraskars.
STEP 2 - Fill in all the details in the application form carefully and accurately. Make sure that all the information you fill in the form is true to your knowledge and correct, as any errors will lead to rejection of applications.
STEP 3 - Attach the photocopies of all the required documents to the form and self-attest them.
STEP 4 - Submit the application to the Social Welfare Officer in your district.
A dedicated State Level Selection Committee, chaired by the Secretary (Women and Child Development), reviews all submissions to choose the most deserving candidates.
Documents
Please make sure you prepare these documents to support your application:
- Valid proof of residency in Goa.
- Clear documentation or evidence substantiating the act of exceptional bravery.
- A government-issued identity proof.
References
Citizen's Charter for Women and Child Development
FAQ's
Can a woman apply if the bravery was shown defending someone else?
Yes, you are eligible if you defended yourself or another woman or girl against violence or harassment.
What is the amount of the cash prize?
The selected awardees receive a cash prize of ₹20,000.
Where must the act of bravery have taken place?
The act can have occurred anywhere, including at home, in the office, or in public spaces.
Who leads the selection committee?
The Secretary (Women and Child Development) acts as the Chairperson of the selection committee.
When are the awards presented?
The awards are officially presented every year during the Republic Day celebrations on January 26th.
How many people are chosen for this award annually?
The scheme selects only two individuals annually to receive this appreciation.