The Professional Training Cell (PTC) of the HPNLU, Shimla, under the leadership of Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Vice-Chancellor, Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, in collaboration with the National Commission for Women (NCW), organized a one-day training workshop on “YASHODA AI” on 11 November 2025. The workshop was graced by the august presence of Smt. Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson, NCW; Smt. Vidya Negi, Chairperson, Himachal Pradesh State Women Commission; officials from NCW, Delhi; representatives from the State Women Commission; faculty members; and students of HPNLU. The event focused on AI literacy, digital empowerment, and promoting inclusive participation of women in the digital era.
The programme commenced with an introductory address by Dr. Deepika Gautam, Chairperson, Professional Training Cell, who emphasized the significance of strengthening digital awareness and fostering confidence among women to navigate the evolving technological landscape.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Priti Saxena formally welcomed the dignitaries and, in her address, emphasized the pivotal role of AI literacy in the present digital era. She highlighted that understanding and effectively engaging with artificial intelligence is essential not only for promoting safe, informed, and responsible digital behavior, but also for enabling individuals, especially women, to harness the potential of technology for education, empowerment, and equitable participation in a rapidly evolving society. Prof. Saxena further underscored that digital competence and awareness are indispensable for building an inclusive and resilient knowledge economy.
Delivering the keynote address, Smt. Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson, NCW, underlined the vision of the YASHODA AI initiative, to reach young minds nationwide, reshape societal perspectives, and promote equitable participation through digital empowerment. She also extended an open invitation for internship opportunities to HPNLU students and expressed a keen interest in exploring research collaborations with the University.
The deliberations throughout the workshop emphasized that while Artificial Intelligence is increasingly influencing every sphere of life, a significant section of women continues to face barriers in accessing digital knowledge and confidence. The YASHODA AI programme aspires to bridge this gap and strengthen the ecosystem of inclusive digital education and empowerment.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr.) Girjesh Shukla, Registrar, HPNLU. The workshop was coordinated by Dr. Ruchi Raj Thakur, Convener, Professional Training Cell.
Description of Photos:
Photo 1 PTC of the HPNLU, Shimla & NCW, organized a one-day training workshop on “YASHODA AI” In Photo- Prof (Dr.) Priti Saxena, Vice Chancellor, HPNLU, Shimla, Smt. Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson, NCW; Smt. Vidya Negi, Chairperson, Himachal Pradesh State Women Commission; officials from NCW, Delhi