Commemorating the International Day of Girl Child, a “Self Defence Class” under “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” was launched with a theme “Invest in Girls’ Rights: our leadership, our well-being” at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School Kohima on October 11.
The day was also observed across the state by organizing various activities. A press release by the district administration informed that BBBP self-defense class has been planned to be carried out in three government schools in Kohima in collaboration with District Hub for Empowerment of Women, Kohima and Performing Art With Fitness (PAWF), at RGHSS, TM Government Higher Secondary School and Dr, N. Kire Government Higher Secondary School.
Deputy Commissioner, Kohima, Shanavas C, who graced the event said that BBBP scheme was launched in India in order to tackle the issue of declining sex ratio of females and practice of female infanticide.
Stressing on female safety, he emphasized that women and girls should change their mindset that they were weaker than men or boys and that they need to be fit and confident.
The DC said that to self protection techniques cannot be learn by overnight but with dedication for months and years of training.
EAC Kohima, Nodal Officer, Mission Shakti, Moasunep K Jingru, delivered a brief introduction of the BBBP scheme in Kohima. The release added that welcome address was delivered by principal, RGHSS, Lebu Krose and invocation by teacher, RGHSS, Thechano.
Wokha: In Wokha, the day was observed at Tiyi Hall in Wokha Town under the theme, “Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership and Well-Being” with SP Wokha, Aotula T. Imchen, as theme speaker.
In her speech, Imchen highlighted the significance of the day and emphasized the immense potential each girl possesses and discussed the inequalities that exist, both intentionally and unintentionally.
Imchen also addressed the challenges faced by the women, such as gender pay gap, limited access to healthcare, and educational deprivation.
Imchen encouraged girls to read books and focus not only on academic books, but to also explore books that provide knowledge and insight.
She also stressed the importance of staying active and practicing leadership qualities on a daily basis.
DPO, Dr. Thungchanbeni delivered an insightful speech on the well-being of girl children. She emphasized that health should be viewed as a holistic concept, encompassing not only physical well-being but also mental, social, and spiritual well-being.
According to her, the adolescent phase was a crucial period marked by significant physical changes, and during this time, it was essential for young girls to seek guidance from their parents and teachers.
A six-minute short film on teenage pregnancy was shown to educate the students, followed by a screening of the captivating movie “Mulan”.
The event was presided by Dr. Wonchano E. Enny, and welcome address by EAC Lachui Fithu. EAC Rozy Sangtam also emphasized on the importance of the day.
Tseminyu: Tseminyu district administration in collaboration with the State Hub for Empowerment of Women, Mission Shakti, Department of Social Welfare, observed the International Day for the Girl Child at Tseminyu Town hall.
Resource persons were Grace Ayee, Menono.V and Tiamongla Kichu. State Mission coordinator SHEW, Grace Ayee highlighted on topic, forms of gender based violence and redress mechanism. Gender Specialist, SHEW Menono.V shared on service delivery mechanism under mission Shakti and Research & Training Specialist SHEW, Tiamongla Kichu highlighted on benefits of Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY).
Earlier, the keynote address was delivered by additional secretary, Department of Social Welfare, Bodeno S. Colo and a short speech was presented by ADC Tseminyu, Longasen Lotha.
A folk song was presented by Assembly of God School, Tseminyu and a poetry recitation by Renthunglo Lotha. A special song was also presented by Rounole Tep.
A plantation drive commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, led by Bodeno S. Colo, was also organised. The programme was chaired by EAC (Hq) Tseminyu, Ruokuosetuo Tetso and SDO (C) Tseminyu, Kemciyile delivered the welcome address.