The NABARD District Office, Phek, in collaboration with the Chakhesang Women Welfare Society (CWWS), successfully organized a grand celebration of International Women’s Day 2025 on March 3, 2025, at Pioneers Complex, CBCC Pfutsero.
The event, themed “March Forward: From Promises to Progress”, aimed to highlight the progress of women’s empowerment and the ongoing journey toward equality and development, informed a press press release by the Chakhesang Women Welfare Society.
The event was led by Nezelu Nyekha, Executive Director of CWWS, who welcomed the attendees and stressed the importance of collective efforts in achieving gender equity.
The program was graced by Dr. Pritpal Kaur, IPS, Superintendent of Police (SP), Phek, as the Special Guest. In her keynote address, Dr. Kaur commended the resilience and contributions of women in various fields, emphasizing the importance of financial independence, education, and leadership. She encouraged women to actively participate in decision-making processes and utilize available government and financial schemes for their growth.
The highlight of the event was an empowering speech by Dr. Pritpal Kaur, IPS, who urged women to break barriers and seize opportunities in all fields, including administration, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. She also delivered an insightful address on sustainable agriculture covering essential topics including hygiene in production, the importance of teamwork within the community, and the benefits of integrated and mixed cropping. She also emphasize on the need for soil testing to ensure sustainability and viability of different crops on specific land, ensuring optimal growth and long-term productivity. The speech also explored on the role of innovation, branding, and packaging in boosting agricultural success. Dr. Kaur concluded with a call for love and unity within the community in particular the women folk to go forward inspiring the attendees to work together for a prosperous future.
During the event, a diversified product from a GI product of Chakhesang shawl “Samakhu” was also launched which was developed as part of the ‘Post GI’ project funded by the NABARD.
The program commenced with an invocation prayer by Teweu Mero, Education Secretary, CBCC, followed by a warm welcome address by Dr. Imsunaro, AGM (DD), NABARD Phek. The audience was captivated by a soulful folk tune performance by Hüvevolü Thelüo and Mhashevelü Rüho, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Chakhesang community.
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Zavetalü, a skilled Chakhesang Shawl weaver, who shared her journey of preserving traditional weaving while creating employment for local women. Zechetu, an SHG (Self-Help Group) member from Lirhukro, who spoke about the challenges and triumphs of women-led community businesses.
The event also included expert discussions on women’s roles in environmental sustainability: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Singh, Senior Scientist cum Head, KVK, delivered an insightful session on “The Role of Women in the Conservation of Plant Biodiversity.” He highlighted the significance of women farmers and entrepreneurs in preserving indigenous plant species and sustainable agriculture from different part of North-East with figures and facts.
The event concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Wekotsou Kapfo, Program Coordinator, CWWS, who expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and organizers for making the event a success.
A benediction prayer marked the closing of the formal program, followed by a luncheon, where attendees had the opportunity to network and engage in discussions on future initiatives for women’s development. This celebration of International Women’s Day 2025 served as a powerful platform to recognize the achievements of women while addressing the challenges that remain. The discussions and initiatives launched during the event reinforced the commitment to creating an inclusive and progressive society where women thrive.
