The ARISE Consultation held in Mumbai on March 16-17, 2026, marked the first in-person convening of the alliance following the transition of CAARJ to ARISE. The meeting brought together Steering Committee members, thematic working groups, and partner organizations to develop a time-bound action plan across ARISE’s three priority areas: expanding access to safe abortion services, countering opposition to abortion, and navigating legal and policy barriers affecting implementation of the MTP Act.
The consultation focused on translating earlier discussions into concrete actions, including strengthening advocacy narratives, improving access for vulnerable groups, enhancing the functioning of Medical Boards, and developing legal and policy guidance for providers and stakeholders. Participants also deliberated on coalition strengthening through communications, digital presence, fundraising, reporting mechanisms, and accountability systems to position ARISE as a coordinated and influential platform advancing abortion rights and access in India.
