THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: On the occasion of International Women's Day, Kerala Health Minister KK Shailaja, who has led from the front in the state's battle against diseases like Nipah and Coronavirus, speaks about the goals that she aims to achieve for the upliftment of women.

When asked about her biggest dream, Shailaja said that she hopes to make the state free from dowry and dowry related abuses. "This government is working its way to completely eradicate dowry from the state. This can be achieved only through creating awareness among the youngsters," she said.

The minister also spoke about the programs conducted by the government to improve the safety of women and children in the state. "The government has conceived the Child Development department two years ago. We were also able to prevent the atrocities against women and children to some extent and ensure proper punishment to the culprits. Furthermore, the government has given the nod to set up 28 fast track special courts to speed up the cases that come under the POCSO Act," she added. The minister also pointed out the introduction of Mitra 181, a 24-hour helpline for women.