Nagaland State observes Int’l Day to end violence against women

Nagaland observed International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women, organised by Social Welfare with Mission Shakti and NSRLM at Capital Convention Centre.
Advisor of Social Welfare, Wangpang Konyak, who also serves as chief ambassador for the HeForShe Campaign against gender based violence, inaugurated Nagaland’s first Gender Resource Centre and formally launched the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence. The initiative marks a significant step toward coordinated efforts to promote gender equality and safeguard women’s rights in the state.
Speaking at the programme, Wangpang said the event should begin a collective journey to ensure no woman or girl in Nagaland lives in fear because of her gender. He highlighted that globally, nearly one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence, describing it as one of the most widespread human rights violations.
Referring to recent developments, he noted Kohima has seen a rise in crimes against women, with Mission Shakti’s One Stop Centres and Women Helpline 181 receiving multiple cases, many from women seeking anonymity. He stressed violence against women must be recognised as a human issue, not merely a women’s issue.
The chief ambassador of the HeForShe Campaign in Nagaland, Wangpang said the movement aims to reshape traditional narratives by presenting gender equality as beneficial for all. He urged individuals to act as ambassadors for women’s safety, declaring true masculinity lies in supporting and protecting women. Stressing the need for men to raise their voices, intervene when necessary, and lead by example, he acknowledged Mission Shakti functionaries for aiding women in distress. He also congratulated NSRLM for expanding Gender Resource Centres to seven new Rural Development blocks.
Wangpang said strengthening Self Help Groups at block and village levels has brought visible grassroots change. He described the newly inaugurated Gender Resource Centre as both a safe space for survivors and a training hub for community institutions. Urging men across Nagaland to take the HeForShe pledge, he stressed speaking up against wrongdoing and promoting dignity.
Assuring women they are not alone, he noted government agencies and individuals stand in solidarity with them.
Delivering the keynote, social welfare secretary and AHoD Limawabang Jamir appreciated men’s active participation in the state level observation. He said the UN designated day launches the global UNiTE Campaign – 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, ending December 10. He also noted Mission Shakti focuses on women’s safety, security and empowerment.
Limawabang said One Stop Centres have been set up in all 17 districts by October 2025, offering rescue, shelter, police aid, medical care, legal counselling and psychosocial support. Since inception, he said OSCs handled 1,703 gender based violence cases and added that Women Helpline 181 and Child Helpline 1098 function jointly as a control room.
Limawabang said the HeForShe campaign reflects the UN’s call to involve men and boys in ending violence against women. Highlighting SHe Box as a single window portal for workplace harassment complaints, he urged stakeholders to ensure safety, use support services, and spread awareness across all spaces.
The programme, chaired by social welfare director Tosheli Zhimomi, while pastor KABA church Bendang Walling offered invocation. KABA Male Voice rendered a musical presentation. Highlights included briefings on legal provisions for women and children, alongside Mission Shakti services through IEC materials and a video. NSRLM introduced a new Gender Resource Centre to strengthen gender responsive interventions. The event concluded with closing remarks from Yongchingkumla, Secretary, Department of Social Welfare.