CM Dr Neiphiu Rio with officials and Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation members during the ENWO’s 6th General Conference held at Konyak Heritage, Mon, on October 30.
Morung Express News
Mon | October 30
Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio has called for greater participation of women in leadership and decision-making, stressing that their voices must remain integral to shaping the future of their communities.
Addressing the 6th General Conference of the Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO), Dr Rio extended warm greetings to all members and honoured the pioneers whose “selfless sacrifices laid its foundation,” expressing hope that their vision and commitment continue to inspire the womenfolk of Eastern Nagaland.
In a post on his official X, the CM acknowledged ENWO’s sustained contributions towards women’s upliftment, dignity and empowerment, describing it as “a significant voice for the marginalised and an advocate for women’s rights and child welfare.” He noted that ENWO has worked tirelessly for the empowerment of women, becoming “the voice of the voiceless and a beacon of hope for the marginalised,” while also playing an important supporting role in the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation’s (ENPO) demand for the Frontier Nagaland Territory Area (FNTA).
Congratulating ENPO, the federating tribal organisations and legislators on the “historic and momentous” FNTA Bill 2026, Rio observed that the pivotal accomplishment would usher Eastern Nagaland into “a new era of development, inclusivity and expanded opportunities for the people.”
The state government has approved the construction of an ENWO Resource Centre in Longleng, which the CM said should promote women’s welfare and empowerment. He encouraged ENWO to use the Centre to promote learning, skill development, capacity-building, create opportunities and foster stronger community relationships.
“If women actively participate in choosing their leaders, they must also be encouraged to become leaders and help shape our society’s future,” Dr Rio said, adding that greater representation of women would bring diverse perspectives, strengthen governance and promote inclusive decision-making.
Highlighting educational progress, the CM noted that the 2011 Census recorded Nagaland’s literacy rate at 79.55%, while the Periodic Labour Force Survey 2023-24 reported 95.7% among people aged seven and above. He stressed the need to build on this progress by ensuring every girl has access to quality education, regardless of background or location.
In the 2026 HSLC examination, girls recorded a 72.72% pass percentage against 71.31% for boys, and secured 57 of the 80 Top 20 merit positions. Dr Rio called for expanding opportunities in higher education, skill development, entrepreneurship and employment to build on these achievements.
A press statement added that referring to women’s advancement in the state, he highlighted Nagaland’s first-place ranking in SDG 5 (Gender Equality) in the NITI Aayog SDG India Index 2023-24 and women’s growing participation in education, entrepreneurship and governance. He also acknowledged landmark political achievements, including S Phangnon Konyak becoming Nagaland’s first woman Rajya Sabha MP, and Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Hekani Jakhalu becoming the state’s first women MLAs. He further noted that 102 of the 198 women candidates in the last Urban Local Body elections were elected, including eight from unreserved wards.
The CM reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development, ensuring its benefits reach all, particularly women, children and remote communities. “Let us build a society where every woman is respected, every girl can realise her dreams, and every child grows up in a nurturing environment,” he said.
Urging ENWO to continue its noble work with courage, unity and determination, Dr Rio said, “May ENWO remain a strong voice for women’s rights and a champion of social justice.” He expressed hope that the deliberations of the Conference would lead to fresh ideas, stronger partnerships and renewed determination to address the challenges faced by women and children in society.
Mon Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak, in his brief address, appreciated the conference theme and underscored equal access to education, entrepreneurship, leadership and decision-making without discrimination, while acknowledging women’s role in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening communities.
The inaugural session began with the arrival of the CM, followed by the ceremonial unfurling of the ENWO flag and rendition of the organisational anthem, with an invocation prayer by Rev A Peihwang Wangsa, Mission Secretary, KBBB. The CM also inaugurated exhibition stalls showcasing indigenous products, creativity and entrepreneurial initiatives of the eight tribal communities.
