Kohima: The International Women’s Day was celebrated at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima, under the theme ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,’ with MLA and Advisor for the Social Welfare Department, Wangpang Konyak, as the special guest.
While addressing the gathering, Advisor Wangpang Konyak said that women empowerment is not just a call for the department but a necessity to build a just, inclusive, and prosperous society, as empowering women uplifts our community. He added that in our state, we are blessed with a rich cultural heritage where women play key roles in the family, community, and economy. However, challenges such as access to higher education, economic opportunities, and protection from violence still need to be addressed. Therefore, the Advisor called upon all to renew their commitment to creating a future where every human can progress, prosper, free from discrimination, and with equal opportunities to succeed while celebrating the day.
The Advisor also expressed pride in having two women lawmakers in the legislative assembly and in the success of women candidates who won 103 seats across the state, marking 37% against the mandatory 33% in the recently held Urban Local Body election. He referred to this as a great success story in Nagaland. He also congratulated the first woman in Nagaland to be appointed as an additional judge of the Guwahati High Court, along with the recipients of the NSCW Excellence Award 2025, NSCW Award 2025, and SHG Women Achievers. He mentioned that Naga women today are recognized for their contributions in various capacities, not only at the state level but also at the national and international levels. He also reminded the gathering that women are the heart of society, irrespective of profession or position, and called upon them to support one another, break barriers, and build a brighter future for generations to come. He urged them to take a pledge to work together, foster equality, respect, and opportunity for all. Through collective efforts, he emphasized, we can create a society in our state where every woman can live with dignity and reach her full potential.
During the program, the keynote address was delivered by Commissioner & Secretary of Social Welfare, Martha R. Ritse, IAS, while the welcome address was given by Secretary of Social Welfare, Bodeno S. Colo, and the vote of thanks was proposed by Director of Social Welfare, Tosheli Zhimomi.
Felicitation of SHG Women Achievers was conducted by Mission Director of the Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission, Imtimenla, while the commendations for the NSCW Excellence Award 2025 and NSCW Award 2025 were presented by Chairperson of the Nagaland State Commissioner for Women, W Nginyeih Konyak.
Atoizu: The District Administration, in collaboration with the District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Zunheboto, organized a grand celebration of International Women’s Day at DBs Hall, Atoizu, under the theme, “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”
The event, which also marked the 10th anniversary of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative, was chaired by Niloni Shohe, President of SUAT. The program began with an opening prayer led by Avikali Wokha, Women Leader of Atoizu Town Baptist Church (SBAK Aizuto), followed by a welcome note from Dr. Samuel Akho Konyak, P, NCS, Extra Assistant Commissioner of Atoizu.
In her address, Suzin Awomi, President of STL, Atoizu Unit, highlighted the important role of women in society, emphasizing the need for continuous efforts toward gender equality. The keynote address was delivered by Vinus Awomi, Councilor of Atoizu Town Council, who encouraged the community to support women’s empowerment.
The event concluded with a benediction prayer by Inatoli Chophy, Women Leader of NCRC, Atoizu Town.
PHED Mokokchung: The Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Mokokchung Division, celebrated International Women’s Day at Alongchen with 35 women participants, including Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, Swachhagrahis, Women WATSAN members, and other representatives from the community. The event focused on empowering women with knowledge about menstrual hygiene and water sanitation.
The District Coordinator, Tsungrusungla Jamir, addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of menstrual hygiene. As part of the initiative, “Boditive,” the first sanitary pad brand from Nagaland, was introduced to the participants, highlighting its benefits in promoting safe and hygienic menstrual practices. Sanitary pads of the brand were distributed to the participants.
Additionally, the District Chemist shared valuable insights on water quality management.
People’s College Mokokchung: People’s College marked International Women’s Day with a vibrant celebration, highlighting the theme for 2025—”Accelerate Action: A Call to Speak Out for Progress Towards Gender Equality.” The event, chaired by Akanglemba, featured engaging discussions on the challenges and triumphs of women across history, their breakthroughs over gender barriers, and the continuous fight to challenge biases and empower future generations. Anuba, a 4th-semester student, delivered a thought-provoking speech on Women and Their Status Quo, tracing the journey of women who have defied norms, broken societal barriers, and contributed significantly to various fields. He emphasized the importance of recognizing women’s resilience and brilliance while urging society to challenge the biases that still exist today.
Alemjungshi of the History Department, in his keynote address, delved into “The Role of Women in Everybody’s Life,” shedding light on the struggles women continue to face, including fear and atrocities. He reflected on historical perspectives, particularly in Indian history, where women in the Rig Vedic period enjoyed a position of respect and influence, which gradually declined with modern societal shifts. He spoke of India’s first female teacher and the persistent challenges in women’s education, emphasizing the urgent need to accelerate progress. Sir Alem urged women to take charge of their own advancement rather than waiting for societal change. He encouraged them to accelerate their pace, become educators, leaders, and changemakers. Quoting Proverbs 30, he reminded the audience that “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
The event concluded with a spirited recreation session, celebrating the strength, brilliance, and perseverance of women. The call for action was clear: gender equality is a two-way street, and it is time to push forward with greater determination.