In a significant move to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Indian state of Odisha has introduced blockchain technology to bolster its support systems for survivors. With this initiative, Odisha becomes the first state in India to deploy blockchain for improving survivor care, positioning itself as a frontrunner in innovative governance solutions.
The Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Smt. Pravati Parida, launched the Shakti Application at a prominent event in Bhubaneswar, marking a milestone in the state’s commitment to addressing GBV. The initiative emphasizes Odisha’s determination to leverage advanced technologies to deliver efficient and dignified care to survivors. By implementing the Shakti App, the government aims to establish a survivor-centric approach that ensures timely, trauma-free assistance while upholding dignity.
Blockchain-Powered Coordination System
The Shakti Application was developed by the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD) in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The app uses blockchain technology to securely store and manage survivor data, offering a more streamlined support process. A key feature of this platform is its ability to reduce the burden on survivors, as it eliminates the need for them to repeatedly share their traumatic experiences across multiple agencies.
By integrating institutions such as shelter homes, One Stop Centres, and district- and state-level officials, the app facilitates seamless coordination. This integration enhances accountability and enables real-time monitoring, thereby improving the efficiency and responsiveness of Odisha’s GBV support infrastructure. The robust framework ensures that survivors receive the care and resources they need without delays or systemic challenges.
The app was initially piloted in five districts, where it received encouraging feedback from survivors and support providers. Many highlighted how the system helped restore a sense of control and dignity in their lives. Following the successful trial, the Odisha government plans to scale the Shakti App across the state to strengthen GBV response mechanisms further.
Culmination of GBV Awareness Campaign
The launch of the Shakti Application coincided with the conclusion of Odisha’s 16-day campaign against Gender-Based Violence. This statewide awareness initiative covered all 30 districts and included impactful street plays aimed at educating the public and driving community action. The campaign ended with a symbolic Human Chain comprising over 1,000 participants, representing Odisha’s collective pledge to end violence against women and girls.
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the importance of adopting modern solutions to societal challenges. Odisha’s focus on technology-driven governance reflects its resolve to create a violence-free and equitable society. The Shakti platform embodies this vision by redefining how survivor support is delivered and managed, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
A Model for Innovation and Social Change
Odisha’s introduction of blockchain technology into its GBV response systems demonstrates how innovation can address pressing social issues. By leveraging blockchain’s secure and transparent framework, the state ensures survivors’ data remains protected while fostering collaboration among relevant institutions. This move not only strengthens accountability but also makes the system more survivor-friendly.
The Shakti Application represents a critical step toward building a safer environment for women and girls in Odisha. By combining technology, governance, and community action, the state is creating a robust model for addressing GBV. This approach reaffirms Odisha’s leadership in driving technological solutions to achieve social equity and justice.
As the state prepares for a broader rollout of the app, it continues to inspire confidence that technology, when harnessed effectively, can empower survivors and transform societal responses to gender-based violence. With initiatives like Shakti, Odisha sets a new benchmark for integrating innovation into social welfare systems, demonstrating how proactive governance can create meaningful change.
