Attendance during the observance of International Women’s Day in Wokha on March 7. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | March 7
The International Women’s Day (IWD) was celebrated at Tiyi Hall, Wokha, on March 7 under the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. for All Women and Girls” with call for equal opportunities and empowerment for women.
The programme was organised by the Wokha District Administration in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, District Hub for Empowerment of Women, and Sakhi One Stop Centre under Mission Shakti, along with Lotha Eloe Hoho (LEH) and the Wokha District Legal Services Authority.
Addressing the occasion as the special guest, Elizabeth Ngully Secretary, Home Department highlighted that women across the world continue to face discrimination and they currently enjoy only about 64 per cent of the legal rights available to men.
She stressed the importance of ensuring equal opportunities, promoting women’s participation in decision-making processes, and encouraging women to speak up against discrimination.
Referring to the situation in Nagaland, she stated that although women are respected in society, they are often excluded from key decision-making platforms.
She noted that the introduction of women’s reservation in urban local bodies has opened opportunities for greater representation, with women now serving as councillors.
Ngully further observed that often women are expected to limit their ambitions and conform to social expectations.
Despite such challenges, she acknowledged that many women continue to pursue their aspirations while also managing family responsibilities.
Emphasising that equal opportunities for women do not diminish opportunities for others, she said that empowering women ultimately strengthens society as a whole.
The Secretary also called for raising daughters with confidence and sons with respect, promoting fair workplaces, and ensuring women’s inclusion in leadership and decision-making spaces.
She stressed that the demand for equal rights is not a competition with men but a step towards building a stronger society for everyone.
Meanwhile, ADC Wokha Renbomo Ezung encouraged the organisers to include men in such programmes so that they too become more aware of women’s rights and the importance of gender equality. He also urged women to continue asserting their rights and contributing actively to society.
LEH President Thungbeni, in her address, called upon women to recognise the significance of IWD, noting that the occasion has long been observed to raise awareness about discrimination faced by women and girls.
She emphasised that women are capable and should never underestimate themselves, adding that women can achieve anything if they believe in their potential.
The programme also featured felicitation and awards recognising outstanding achievements. Awards were presented for Best Performing Self-Help Group (SHG), Successful Entrepreneur (Business), and Upcoming Entrepreneur (Business).
Winners of the Flower Exhibition were also honoured for their entries.
