Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress

Kohima, 8 March (MTNews): State-level commemoration of the International Women’s Day was held at The Heritage in Kohima on 8 March 2024 under the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ with Nagaland Minister for Women Resource Development and Horticulture, Salhoutuonuo Kruse, as the special guest.

Addressing the gathering, Kruse highlighted the pivotal role women have played throughout history, acting as the backbone of society with grace, intelligence, and unwavering determination. She acknowledged the multifaceted contributions of women, from nurturing families to driving economic growth, yet stressed that women continue to face barriers and inequalities hindering their progress. Kruse called for recognizing the untapped potential within women and investing in their equal opportunities, resources, and support to empower them to thrive and succeed.

Kruse emphasized the importance of investing in girls’ education, stating that educating a girl educates a nation and contributes to a brighter future for all. She also addressed the need for economic empowerment, raising awareness on healthcare services, reproductive rights, gender-based violence, and gender disparities. Kruse underscored the significance of investing in women’s leadership, highlighting the benefits of diverse perspectives and collaboration in decision-making.

Kruse urged both men and women in the state to recommit themselves to investing in women, providing the tools needed for success to accelerate progress and create a more sustainable and equitable society.

Wangpang Konyak, Advisor to the Department of Social Welfare, emphasized the importance of integrating women into decision-making bodies and leadership roles. He asserted that women’s inclusion in such roles is integral to the progress of Naga society, advocating for investment in women through education, skill development, and leadership guidance.

Martha R Ritse IAS, Secretary of Social Welfare, expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of various departments in celebrating the social, cultural, and economic progress of women. She highlighted the Government of India’s programs and schemes aimed at assisting and empowering women across the country.

The International Women’s Day event featured the felicitation of women achievers from the state, including two women legislators, Minister Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Advisor Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu, Member of Parliament Phangnon Konyak, and eight other women awarded the Padma Shri.

W Nginyeih Konyak, Chairperson of Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), announced the winners of the NSCW Award 2024, with C Tsurila, Nengneithem Hengna, and K Ela receiving the awards.

The event concluded with Tosheli Zhimomi, Director of Social Welfare, delivering the vote of thanks, followed by the inauguration of the MykiFest and the DWRD interactive session.

The event was jointly organized by the Department of Social Welfare, the Department of Women Resource Development, Nagaland State Commission for Women, Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, and State Hub Empowerment of Women- Mission Shakti.