Sex workers and sexually abused women can receive vocational/technical training and skill development through the Goa (Technical/ Vocational Training to Sex Workers and Sexually Abused Women) Scheme, 2013 (PRABHAT), administered by the Department of Women and Child Development, Government of Goa. The plan helps recipients learn livelihood skills and live independently by concentrating on rehabilitation. The department collaborates with NGOs, trusts, groups, professions, and experts on sex worker rehabilitation.
Benefits
Financial Assistance
The beneficiary (excluding those housed in Protective Homes) is provided a monthly stipend of ₹2,500 for three months or until she joins a livelihood program, whichever is earlier.
Technical/Vocational Training
Based on their literacy levels, skills, and interests, a mentor or probation officer assists the beneficiary in enrolling in a government or non-government technical/vocational program. This includes training in mobile phone repair, beauty treatment, tailoring, bakery, catering, and other job-oriented courses. Fees, travel costs, and miscellaneous expenses are covered.
Education
If a beneficiary wishes to pursue formal education, assistance is offered up to the 12th Standard, covering costs such as tuition fees, boarding, travel, books, and personal items.
Shelter
If needed, the beneficiary is admitted to a shelter home or protective home managed by a government or non-government agency that receives grants from the State or Central government.
Psycho-Social Services
The beneficiary receives counseling from a probation officer, mentor, or professional counselor/psychiatrist. Costs related to travel, fees, and medicine are reimbursed.
Health
Beneficiaries receive healthcare in government hospitals. Those diagnosed with HIV or TB are linked to ART and DOTS programs. If the beneficiary requires institutional care (e.g., advanced AIDS), she is admitted to care centers for up to six months.
Children
Children of victims of commercial sexual exploitation receive counseling, school admission assistance, and coverage for educational expenses (boarding, fees, travel, books, toiletries) up to the 12th Standard.
Reintegration
The probation officer or mentor facilitates the beneficiary’s reintegration with family and community, providing counseling to family members and local residents if necessary.
Protection
To safeguard the victim from harassment by traffickers, the mentor or probation officer may seek help from family members, community leaders, religious leaders, the local police, or the Integrated Anti-human Trafficking Unit. Complaints can also be made to the Goa State Commission for Women for victim protection.
Livelihood (a)
The probation officer or mentor assists in job placement according to the victim’s interest and skills. If a beneficiary cannot find or is not interested in a job, support is provided to start a small business.
Livelihood (b)
Upon successful vocational training completion, the beneficiary may receive help in preparing a project report or obtaining loans. The Department may offer financial assistance for setting up an enterprise, as decided by the government from time to time.
Eligibility
- Women and children who are victims of commercial sexual exploitation.
- Must be a resident or native of Goa.
- The place of exploitation does not affect eligibility. Women and girls from Goa, who are exploited outside the state, also qualify.
Application Process
Offline
- Visit the Probation Officer in the Department of Women & Child Development.
- Request the application form and fill it out with all mandatory details.
- Attach passport-sized photographs (if required) and self-attested documents.
- Submit the completed form to the Probation Officer.
- Obtain a receipt/acknowledgment of successful submission.
Check Application Status
For updates, contact the Probation Officer regarding the scheme’s application status.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof
- Resident Certificate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can You Explain How The Monitoring Committee Ensures The Sex Workers Rehabilitation Scheme Is Effective?
The monitoring committee ensures the rehabilitation program meets goals and requirements. The committee improves results by assessing progress, finding gaps, and taking remedial action. - Can you describe the Monitoring Committee’s members and their expertise in supporting sex workers?
The committee usually comprises government officials, NGO representatives, lawyers, social workers, and healthcare specialists. Each member has specific expertise and experience to solve sex workers’ complex concerns. - How often does the Monitoring Committee meet, and why is meeting within a week after receiving applications important?
Committee meetings must be held often and soon after applications are received to provide prompt evaluation and support for vulnerable recipients. Effective intervention and assistance need quick reaction. - What Does the Monitoring Committee Do During Meetings?
The committee meets to examine cases, assess progress, discuss obstacles, and decide on actions. Funding, training, and coordination with other agencies are examples. - Why Does The “Sex Workers Rehabilitation Fund” Support The Scheme? How Is It Structured?
The fund pools grants, contributions, and government funds to provide vocational training, healthcare, housing, and other rehabilitation for sex workers. - How are “Sex Workers Rehabilitation Fund” grants and donations managed?
Accounting standards provide openness for grants and donations. The committee monitors money allocation, disbursement, and use and reports to authorities. - Do “Sex Workers Rehabilitation Fund” donations have tax benefits?
Current government rules may exclude donations from taxes. Contributors may find details in tax rules or official notices. - Can You Explain How Sex Workers Can Apply For Rehabilitation Under The Scheme?
Eligible applicants must complete the application form, attach appropriate documentation, and submit it to the Department of Women & Child Development or a Probation Officer. - How Does Committee Membership by Commercial Sexual Exploitation Victims Benefit Rehabilitation?
For more sympathetic and effective policy choices, including survivors on the committee provides practical insights on needs and obstacles. - Can you explain the other business the Monitoring Committee does during meetings?
In addition to examining applications, the committee may consider policy changes, training, financial allocations, and strategic alliances with NGOs and healthcare providers. - How is the “Sex Workers Rehabilitation Fund” financially managed and accountable?
Thorough audits, clear paperwork, and government reporting guarantee monies are utilized properly for recipients. - How does the Monitoring Committee ensure sex workers’ unique needs are met throughout rehabilitation?
Committee members examine beneficiaries’ educational backgrounds, skills, and family situations to create customized assistance packages. - What steps does the Monitoring Committee take to overcome Scheme implementation obstacles?
They work with government, NGOs, and law enforcement to address beneficiary concerns including money, infrastructure, and social stigma. - How Does The Sex Workers Rehabilitation Scheme Fit With Human Trafficking Prevention And Vulnerability Protection?
The strategy prevents human trafficking, reintegrates survivors, and reduces community exploitation by focusing rehabilitation, skill development, and protection.
Sources and References