International Women’s Day celebrated across Nagaland

Phomla Hoichem, the apex women body of the Phom community and District Hub for Empowerment of Women in convergence with NRLM-SHGs, SBI & SCK (IDAN) Longleng, celebrated international women’s day on the theme ‘Leading the Change: Women shaping a sustainable future’ on March 7, at public ground Longleng, with Ase Zao, lady wife of MLA, A. Pongshi Phom, as the special guest. According to DIPR report, Ase Zao, in her address, said despite global unrest, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) rejoices in the achievement of Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA). She also expressed her gratitude to the organizers and the district hub for women’s empowerment and Phomla Hoichem for organising the program. Highlighting the achievements of Phom women, she said “Women are powerful in their own ways” and noted that women play a vital role in shaping society, starting from the family.
She pointed out that behind every successful man, there is a woman and advised women to stay busy to avoid temptation. She also inaugurated the exhibition stalls setup by various departments and SHGs. Senior gynaecologist from District Hospital Longleng, Dr. Nounenuo Terhase, spoke on HPV vaccination campaign against Cervical Cancer. EAC Yongnyah, Imkongnukla Ao, and chairman & team leader Lemsachenlok, Y. Nuklu Phom also spoke at the programme. The President Phomla Hoichem, A. Ainyu Phom delivered the welcome address, while the significance of the day was elaborated by M. Chingong Phom. Team Harmony Heritage presented a song titled’ Awe-Inspiring,’ while the Acknowledgement & Awards was presented by, DMC, DHEW, P. Phongla Phom. The programme was chaired by cultural secretary ENWO, Lipom Phom, and commenced with an invocation pronounced by associate pastor for women, Ao Baptist Church Longleng, Asangla Imchen.
SHAMATOR: The International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 7 under the theme, ‘Right. Justice. Action- for all women and girls’ at DC’s Conference Hall, Shamator. The programme was organised by the Department of Social Welfare in collaboration with SEWA (Self Employed Women Association) Shamator. According to DIPR report, the program was graced by Deputy Commissioner (DC), Chubatemjem and his lady wife Imnasenla. Introductory speech and lighting of lamp to mark the occasion was done by C Tsurila, field Incharge Shamator SEWA. The theme speaker of the day, Renchano Odyuo, DPO Shamator spoke on the rights of women & girls and highlighted the importance of eliminating domestic violence, sexual harassment and equal opportunities in all aspects of life. She also encouraged the womenfolk to avail the services provided by One Stop Centre. During the programme, five women were honoured with certificates of appreciation for their good performance and contributions in their respective fields.
MELURI: International Women’s Day was celebrated at Meluri on March 7, 2 at Pochury Hoho building, Conference hall, Meluri organised by One Stop Centre (OSC) and Mission Shakti, Meluri in collaboration with the Pochury Mothers’ Association (PMA), under the theme, ‘Rights. Justice. Action: For all women & girls.’ According to DIPR report, the event honoured women’s achievements and focused on community empowerment. Deputy Commissioner & chairperson, DLC Mission Shakti, K. Mhathung Tsanglao (NCS), who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the necessity of collective action to ensure gender justice. The programme featured a special musical performance by PAPO and insightful extempore speeches from representatives of women from five Pochury areas. The celebration also marked the inauguration of the ‘Pochury Indigenous Cuisine Competition,’ celebrating local heritage and tradition, which was sponsored by Ladies Club Meluri. The event was led by centre administrator Kum, Jitsiasa Nyusou, with welcome remarks proposed by president, Pochury Mother’s Association, Tvusesii.
PHEK: In Phek, the International Women’s Day was celebrated at Town Hall, Phek on 7th March 2026 with Imlibenla Nienu, lady wife of MLA, Azo Nienu as special guest, under the theme: ‘Give to Gain- Right, justice, action, for all Women and Girls.’ Delivering her speech, Imlibenla Nienu praised God for blessing women with the power of inner strength, that is endurance. She said that inner strength doesn’t just come alone, but with faith in God. She urged upon women to maintain one’s identity with their own thoughts, voice and motto towards building a firm future. In his short speech, DC Phek, Rhosietho Nguori, NCS exhorted the gathering expressing his concern about the importance of respect and love between husbands and wives in the families.The resource person Sekhotso Rokha, retainer lawyer, Phek PDLSA stoke on POSCO Act 2012, while Thukutalu Chizo, Panel Lawyer, Phek PDLSA spoke on the topic “Protection of women from domestic violence”. President of Chakeshang Mother Association, Zhonillu Tunyi also delivered a short speech, while Neichulou Tsuzu, President of PTWWS delivered a presidential address at the program. Thomeweu, Panel Lawyer, Phek DLSA chaired the program. Veshienelu H. Keyho and Kanili Dienu offered benediction and invocation prayers respectively. Folk songs by Bethel Ward and special numbers by Hebron II Ward were the highlights of the program. The program was organised by Phek Town Women Welfare Society in collaboration with Phek District Legal Service Authority.
ACID cum NDWM: Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) cum National Domestic Workers’ Movement (NDWM) organised International Women’s Day Programme, under the theme, “Give to Gain” on March 7 at Assisi Auditorium, lake view colony. The event was graced by District Governor of Lions District 322D, Lions Club International, and St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School, Dimapur, principal, Dr. Neena Dutta as the chief guest and Prodigals’ Home, Director, K. Ela as speaker. Addressing the audience, chief guest, Dr. Neena Dutta, said that International Women’s Day is not only a day of celebration but also a time for reflection on the role of women in society and the sacrifices they make for their families. She highlighted that women often quietly carry the responsibility of caring for their children, families and elderly members, while continuing to work and contribute to society.
Sharing her own journey, she said her life was also a struggle but through determination and support from family she was able to pursue education, become a teacher and eventually establish a school that now educates many students. She encouraged women to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. Appreciating the work of Assisi centre for supporting women and children, she stated its commitment to empowering women, supporting children, promoting health awareness, skill development, and protecting the rights and dignity of domestic workers was inspiring. She said the organisation’s efforts in these areas contribute significantly to building stronger communities. She also noted that through her role as a district governor of Lions District 322D, she expressed her willingness to help and assist in any way possible. Speaking on the theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ Prodigals’ Home, director, K. Ela, said that to gain something, one must give, and in order to give, one must first have something to give, if you do not have, you cannot give. She highlighted the struggles that women go through and the power and work that women dos and encouraged them to strive harder, for a better future and reach the top. She said that when a woman faces violence or abuse, the 24/7 women helpline number 181 should be contacted. She also emphasized that since women and children are connected, the children helpline number 1098 should be contacted in any situation related to children.
She spoke about how many women miss the chance to go to school, with some forced to give up their studies halfway due to their parents’ financial difficulties, and others by their own choice. She said this was one of the reasons why the situation for women remains challenging. To ensure that future daughters do not face the same struggles, she urged families to allow them to study and be educated.
She also offered guidance to mothers, encouraging them to raise their sons to respect women, treat others with fairness, and show kindness in their behaviour. Parents, she emphasized, should treat all their children equally, giving both sons and daughters the same opportunities and guide them. A short speech was delivered by, Advocate, Priya, who stated that International Women’s Day celebrates the courage, strength and contributions of women, whose work often goes unnoticed despite their important role in families and society. She said women today are progressing in every field and should not consider themselves weak, as they carry the responsibility of caring for families while also contributing to society. She stressed that respect for women should begin at home, urging families to treat daughters with the same encouragement and freedom given to sons so they can grow with confidence and pursue their aspirations. She further spoke about the need for awareness and responsible decision-making, especially in today’s digital age, and urged mothers to guide their children and be positive role models. Referring to the theme ‘Give to Gain,’ she said that when people give love, support and care, they receive the same in return, and such values help strengthen families and society. Concluding her address, she reminded women to take pride in their identity and remain strong, saying that women have the courage to overcome challenges and move forward together by supporting one another.
Other highlights of the program included CRM Children presenting a prayer song, performed a dance, and later showcased an Adivasi dance. Songs were presented by Netaji SHGs, Pothron & Co., Chungli & Co., a dance was performed by Maya & Co., and a cultural show was presented by Women SHGs.
WENN: Women Entrepreneurs Network Nagaland (WENN) in collaboration with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) organised a programme to celebrate International Women’s Day under the theme ‘Give to Gain – Right. Justice. Action. For all Women and Girls’ at Tia Ki Nagaland Art Space on Saturday.
The event brought together women leaders and professionals who shared their journeys, challenges and contributions towards empowering women in society. Delivering the keynote address, the general manager of NABARD emphasised the importance of collective efforts in ensuring rights, justice and opportunities for women and girls. The official also highlighted the role of institutions and communities in supporting women’s empowerment and sustainable development.
Speaking at the programme, principal of Hope Academy, Sashizungla Ao, shared her journey of establishing the school. She said the institution began on January 1, 2007 with just six students, driven by her belief that Naga children were equally capable as students from other parts of the country.
Over the years, the school grew steadily and now has around 1,000 students and more than 200 teaching staff. Ao recalled that the school initially started as a pre-school and gradually expanded after obtaining the necessary permissions. She said the journey was not easy but perseverance, prayer and faith helped her overcome challenges. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining an open-door policy and paying attention to students who feel left out in the learning process.
Coordinator of Miqlat Ministry under NBCCWD, Alole Tsühah, spoke about the work of theministry which focuses on addressing the social concerns of women. She explained that ‘Miqlat’, a Hebrew word meaning ‘refuge’, was launched in 2005 to support women in vulnerable situations.
Tsühah said many young women from remote areas come to towns like Dimapur in search of jobs but sometimes end up in difficult circumstances. She shared that the ministry conducts fieldwork, provides rehabilitation, skill training such as tailoring and detergent making, and medical support for women in need.
She added that the organisation also conducts seminars and workshops, while women who have undergone rehabilitation help mentor new entrants. According to Tsühah, the ministry emphasises empowerment rather than charity, encouraging women to produce quality products and earn a livelihood with dignity. She said passion and commitment were essential for those working in such ministries.
Public prosecutor Dimapur, Temsunaro Jamir, spoke on the role of prosecutors and legal awareness. She explained that prosecutors represent both the state and the complainant in criminal cases and stressed the importance of integrity in the profession.
Jamir also highlighted the need for greater awareness of legal rights, particularly among women. While noting that Nagaland records relatively lower crime rates in terms of ratio, she pointed out that crimes against women still occur and should not be overlooked. She further observed that sometimes women themselves discourage victims from reporting cases, which can hinder justice. Jamir stressed the importance of education and awareness, including teaching children about issues such as good touch and bad touch, to prevent crimes.
As part of the programme, WENN felicitated four women entrepreneurs—Mongshai, Supongtula Aier, Subon Chia and Ididaule Ngia—for their contributions to society.
The event concluded with a call to recognise the strength and resilience of women and to continue creating spaces where their voices, journeys and achievements are acknowledged and celebrated.
PRANAB COLLEGE: Pranab College, Dimapur celebrated International Women’s Day on March 7, under the theme “Give to Gain.” The programme was organised by the Women Empowerment Cell in collaboration with the NSS Unit of Pranab College.
As part of its tradition, Pranab College felicitated entrepreneur, social worker, and alumna, Pink Blossom Society and Craveinn Café & Lodge, proprietor, Kimthailiu Panmei for her contributions to society, social welfare, and women’s empowerment. The event featured an address on the significance of International Women’s Day by assistant professor, Department of EVS, Purnima Das. The Scroll of Honour was presented to Kimthailiu Panmei, by Vice-Principal, C. Narola Ao and followed by a sharing by Panmei.
Following the programme, the Women Empowerment Cell and NSS Unit carried out an extension activity at the New Market area, Dimapur where gift hampers were distributed to women vendors in recognition of their hard work and their role in promoting self-reliance, organic practices, and sustainable living in society.
SALESIAN COLLEGE: Salesian College celebrated International Women’s Day on March 7, highlighting the importance of women’s empowerment and social responsibility. The programme was graced by advisor of Community Health Initiative and founder of Menstrual Initiative Nagaland, Loreni Sophia.
The introductory note was delivered by assistant professor, Streamlet Bathari, who highlighted the theme of IWD 2026, ‘Give to Gain.’ She emphasized that the theme encourages individuals and communities to contribute positively towards the empowerment and uplift of women, thereby fostering a just and inclusive society.
Loreni Sophia delivered her keynote address in two engaging sessions. The first session was an interactive segment where she discussed the theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting how acts of support, education, and empowerment for women can create lasting positive impacts on families, communities, and society at large. Sophia also spoke of her NGO, Menstrual Initiative Nagaland, which focuses on promoting menstrual hygiene and improving women’s health awareness. She shared her journey and the challenges she encountered while working with students and local women across Nagaland. Drawing from her extensive field experience, she explained how awareness programmes, community engagement, and open discussions have helped break taboos surrounding menstrual health and encouraged young women to take better care of their wellbeing.
MODEL CHRISTIAN COLLEGE: Model Christian College celebrated International Women’s Day at its auditorium with students and faculty members in attendance.
The guest speaker, Gender Specialist State Hub for Empowerment of Women Mission Shakti, Social Welfare Department, Government of Nagaland, Meneno V. addressed on the theme of women empowerment and the need to create opportunities for women in all spheres of life. She also mentioned the services make available for women and children, and stressed on the need to create a safer community for the collective whole.
MGM COLLEGE, DIMAPUR: The Women’s Cell of MGM College celebrated International Women’s Day on March 7 under the theme ‘Give to Gain.’
Delivering the keynote message on the theme ‘A virtuous woman,’ Temjenzungla Aier assistant professor, Dept of History shared an inspiring reflection on the true identity and value of women.
In her address, she emphasized that a virtuous young girl understands that her worth does not come from outward appearance or social approval, but from her relationship with God and the way she lives her life. She noted that a virtuous woman is trustworthy and reliable, demonstrating integrity in both words and actions.
As part of the celebration, bookmarks printed with individual photographs were distributed among the participants. The programme also included a meaningful food-sharing time, organized in line with the MGM Women’s theme for 2026, ‘Grace with Courage.’ The celebration concluded with a special prayer offered by Dr. R. K. Behera, Principal of MGM College, bringing the programme to a reflective and graceful end.
The event was chaired by office assistant Talinaro, and began on a joyful note with a melodious song presented by the Swu sisters, setting a reflective and celebratory atmosphere for the gathering.