International Women’s Day celebrated in Kohima

International Women’s Day 2026 was celebrated in Nagaland on March 7 at the Capital Convention Centre under the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.”
Minister for Environment, Forest, Climate Change & Village Guards, C.L. John, in his address honoured the strength and contributions of women in Nagaland and across the world. He said the day was not only about celebration but also recognition of the sacrifices, barriers broken and achievements of women in every sphere.
Highlighting the role of women in Naga society, John said women are the backbone of families, the strength of villages and the guiding force of churches and communities. He added that Naga women contribute tirelessly to the progress of the state—from agricultural fields and marketplaces to classrooms and hospitals.
Expressing pride, the minister noted that women in Nagaland are provided equal opportunities in many sectors and are excelling in competitive examinations and academics. In civil services, education, entrepreneurship and professional careers, he said, women continue to prove that dedication and hard work know no gender.
On political representation, he said Nagaland currently has two women Members of the Legislative Assembly and one woman representing the state in the Rajya Sabha, S. Phangnon Konyak.
Their presence, he said, reflects the growing voice and confidence of Naga women in governance.
Remembering pioneers such as Rano M. Shaiza, the minister said her courage and leadership paved the way for future generations. He also acknowledged organisations such as the Naga Mothers’ Association, whose message “Shed No More Blood” demonstrated that women are powerful agents of peace and social reform.
Maintaining that Naga society shines because of its women, he said their strength, wisdom, patience and faith have strengthened families and communities. “When women rise, families rise; when families rise, Nagaland rises,” he added.
However, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly issues related to gender-based violence and unequal access to opportunities. Referring to statistics on gender-based violence in the state, he emphasised the need to address the issue, stating that gender-based violence is a violation of human rights and a major obstacle to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Advisor for Social Welfare and MLA Wangpang Konyak, the chief host of the event, said the theme reminds society that rights must be claimed, justice must be delivered and action must be taken—especially for women and girls facing barriers to access and equality in rural areas.
Konyak said the Social Welfare Department serves as the nodal department for three ministries—Women & Child Development, Social Justice & Empowerment, and Rural Development—and implements several women-centric welfare schemes. He noted that through Mission Shakti, the Government of India emphasises women-led development by strengthening interventions for women’s safety while promoting empowerment.
He also highlighted inspiring stories emerging across Nagaland through community efforts and government initiatives under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM), the Department of Women Resource Development and Mission Shakti.
Referring to National Crime Records Bureau reports, he said Nagaland has often been cited as one of the safest states for women with a relatively low crime rate, but cautioned that there has been a gradual rise in crimes against women and girls in recent years. He called for collective efforts, including the participation of men and boys, to confront violence and end gender-based discrimination.
During the programme, outstanding Self Help Groups (SHGs), federations and individual women achievers for the financial year 2025–26 were felicitated for their contributions to rural livelihoods and women’s empowerment.
Under the NSRLM Awards, Doyal SHG from Dhansiripar, Dimapur was adjudged Best Self Help Group for FY 2025–26, while Tsithrongse Village VLO from Dhansiripar received the Best Village Level Organisation award. Oasis Federation from Jalukie block was honoured as Best Cluster Level Federation (above three years), while Unique Cluster Level Federation from Chümoukedima block received the award for Best Cluster Level Federation (above five years).
Among individual achievers, Arila Sangtam received the award for Most Inspiring Placement under NSRLM, Diethovino Chutso was honoured as Social Change Maker, Neisavino Mera was recognised as Best SHG Woman in Financial Inclusion, Napaholi H. Muru received the award for Most Enterprising SHG Woman in Non-Farming Livelihood, and Angeli Medeo was honoured for Outstanding Leadership in Farm Livelihoods.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), led by chairperson Nginyeih Konyak, presented the NSCW Awards 2026. The NSCW Excellence Award 2026 was presented to Ponglem Konyak, president of Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong, while the NSCW Award 2026 was conferred on Apeuna Iheilung, president of the Zeliangrong Mipui Organisation.
The programme also included the felicitation of municipal workers and Anganwadi workers for their role in community welfare and grassroots development.
The event was chaired by Theodore Yanthan, joint secretary of the Department of Social Welfare. Rev. Izieteilung Tering pronounced the invocation.
Delivering the welcome address, Vilone Sakhrie, Director of Women Resource Development, highlighted the importance of collective efforts in advancing women-centric initiatives.
The keynote address was delivered by Limawabang Jamir, Secretary and Administrative Head of Department, Department of Social Welfare, who highlighted the significance of Mission Shakti in ensuring the safety, protection and empowerment of women and called for stronger inter-departmental coordination.
An awareness video on Mission Shakti was screened during the programme. The vote of thanks was delivered by Moa Sangtam, joint secretary of the Department of Rural Development and Mission Director of NSRLM.
The programme was jointly organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Mission Shakti (SHEW–SANKALP), Nagaland State Commission for Women, Department of Women Resource Development, Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission and Kohima Municipal Council. (Correspondent)