New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday, October 27 inaugurated the Centenary Academic Building, Computer Centre and Skill Development Centre at Daulat Ram College, University of Delhi, and urged students to pursue their ambitions with confidence, courage and determination, according to a Chief Minister's Office press release reported by ANI.

Source: ANI via LatestLY

Gupta said work was underway to install 1 lakh smart streetlights across Delhi and connect them to a Control and Command Centre. The system would help identify faulty streetlights promptly and ensure that repairs were carried out within a stipulated timeframe, thereby reducing dark spots and improving safety in public spaces, she said.

She also announced that work was underway on a plan to install 50,000 new CCTV cameras across the national capital. The proposed initiatives are aimed at strengthening surveillance and improving the safety of citizens, including women, she said. The announcements were also reported by The CSR Journal and Hindustan Times.

Interacting with students, the Chief Minister said every girl in Delhi should be able to move forward fearlessly, assuring them that the Delhi government stands with them to protect their safety, dignity and rights. She said the responsibility for women's safety should not be placed on girls alone and called for a change in society's mindset — instead of imposing restrictions on girls, boys and men should be taught to respect women.

During the programme, students of the Mahila Vikas Samiti demonstrated self-defence techniques. Gupta appreciated their courage, confidence and alertness, saying such training helps girls prepare to protect themselves in difficult situations while strengthening their self-confidence. She also launched the 'Miss DRC Talent Hunt' and discussed the need to renovate the college auditorium, assuring the institution of her cooperation.

The inauguration held special significance for Gupta, an alumna of Daulat Ram College, who recalled that her journey in public life began when she became general secretary of the college students' union. Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh, college Principal Prof. Savita Roy, governing body chairman Mukul Gupta and Vijay Shankar Tiwari were present, ANI reported. She also emphasised that education should go beyond a degree and equip young people with technical knowledge and practical skills to become self-reliant.