Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday, 12 October held an informal meeting with student representatives from colleges across Delhi, listening to their concerns on campus safety, facilities, and the quality of higher education. Gupta pledged to prioritise the suggestions raised and announced plans to involve students in shaping the city's upcoming youth policy and budget.

What the Meeting Covered

The Chief Minister described the interaction as a 'heartfelt conversation' in which students shared first-hand experiences and put forward recommendations on three broad themes: personal safety, campus infrastructure, and access to better education. In a post on X, Gupta said, 'Today, I had a heartfelt conversation with student representatives from various colleges in Delhi. In this informal meeting, the students shared their experiences and offered several valuable suggestions regarding safety, facilities, and better education in colleges.'

She added that the thinking of the younger generation, their ideas, and their drive were a source of inspiration, and committed that their participation would be embedded in the policy-making process. 'Every student of Delhi should move forward with confidence, lead and fulfil her dreams. Their every concern is our responsibility, and their bright future is our resolve,' Gupta said.

NCW's Udaan Programme at Delhi University

The meeting follows a separate initiative on Sunday, 11 October, in which National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar addressed non-collegiate women students of Delhi University at Miranda House. The session was part of the NCW's 'Udaan' programme, held under the theme 'Udaan – Sapne Bade Hon, Raaste Aneka Hon' (Dreams Be Big, Paths Be Many).

Rahatkar told students that self-motivation, self-confidence, and a desire to keep learning were the foundations of success. 'When daughters believe in themselves and persistently strive toward their goals, they not only shape their own future but also become inspirations for change in society,' she said, according to an official statement.

Scope of the NCW Udaan Initiative

The NCW organised 'Udaan' sessions across multiple Non-Collegiate Women's Education Board (NCWEB) centres of the University of Delhi. The programme focused on three pillars: self-development, future skills, and awareness about the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act — legislation that governs workplace safety for women. Students were encouraged to identify their strengths, build new skills, and seize emerging opportunities.

What Comes Next

Chief Minister Gupta indicated that the dialogue with college students will be an ongoing process, with regular consultations planned. The specific measures emerging from Monday's meeting are expected to be reflected in the formulation of Delhi's youth policy, with the budget cycle offering the next concrete policy window. The twin initiatives signal a renewed focus by both the Delhi government and the NCW on women's safety and educational advancement in the capital.