Wokha District celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025 under the theme “For All Women & Girls: Rights, Equality: Empowerment” at TIYI Hall with Dr. Chumben Murry, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, as the special guest. 9 Anganwadi workers and 14 ASHA workers were felicitated for their exceptional service.
In his speech, Dr Chumben Murry emphasized the importance of recognizing women’s achievements while addressing ongoing societal disparities. He highlighted key areas of focus, including healthcare, education, economic empowerment, safety, and violence against women.
Healthcare and well-being were major topics of discussion. Drawing from his experience as a gynaecologist, he noted that hospital visits and institutional deliveries among women were significantly lower in the past but have now improved. He acknowledged this progress while stressing the need for continued awareness on women’s health. He also emphasised on the importance of discussions on family planning as a crucial aspect of women’s well-being.
Education and employment opportunities for women were highlighted as vital areas for advocacy. Citing data, he stated that the literacy rate among Naga women stood at 76.11% as per the 2011 Census, while the gender parity index in higher education was recorded at 93.80%. Between 2021-23, tertiary education enrollment for Naga women reached 56.96%, and their participation in the government workforce was at 44%. These figures, he noted, reflect that Naga women are also not far behind.
The discussion also covered political representation and inheritance rights, with Dr. Murry pointing out that women are often excluded from community land wealth. He urged that such issues be openly addressed to ensure fairness and inclusion. Acknowledging women’s growing presence in politics, he encouraged further participation and advocacy.
On safety and security, he noted that Nagaland is recognized as the safest state for women in India. However, he stressed the importance of remaining vigilant and ensuring that any incidents of violence against women are reported and addressed effectively.
Women’s contributions to the economy were another key focus, with many excelling in business, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. Their strong presence in livelihood activities and the market sector was acknowledged as a testament to their role in driving economic growth.
He concluded by emphasizing that while various laws and government schemes exist to uplift women, they should not rely solely on these provisions. Instead, he urged women to be assertive, empowered, and determined to achieve greater heights.
Vineet Kumar (IAS), Deputy Commissioner, Wokha, in his keynote address acknowledged the significant progress made in women’s empowerment, particularly over the past decade. He highlighted the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) program, which is completing 10 years this year, as a milestone in empowering women across India. Kumar emphasized the progress made in Nagaland, where the participation of women in the workforce has increased from approximately 16% in 2011 to 27% in 2023, noting that this growth is faster than the national average, though still behind the goal of 45-50% participation.
Despite these advancements, Kumar acknowledged that there is still much to be done, especially in areas like health, where maternal mortality and other health indicators remain challenges. He stressed the need to continue focusing on women’s health and ensuring equitable access to opportunities in all sectors of society.
Kumar also reflected on the historical struggles faced by women, referencing the harsh practices of the past, such as the widow-burning tradition, and the efforts of pioneers who fought against such practices despite facing great personal risk. He emphasized that societal change requires overcoming deep-rooted traditions and psychological barriers, which take time but are essential for progress.
Thungbeni Ngullie, President, Lotha Eloe Hoho, speaking at the event, focused on the resilience, strength, and contributions of women across the world. She highlighted that International Women’s Day is not just a celebration but a reminder of the continuous struggle for gender equality. Ngullie encouraged women to keep shining, inspiring others, and teaching the next generation both daughters and sons, the importance of equality.
In her speech, she emphasized the importance of continuing to fight for women’s rights, not just on International Women’s Day, but every day, to ensure a world where women have the freedom and opportunity to live life on their own terms.
Cheliam Khiamnguinan, NJS Judicial Magistrate First Class and Secretary, WDLSA, in her short speech, addressed the gathering about the need for the protection of women from various forms of abuse, including domestic violence and sexual harassment. She highlighted the importance of government initiatives such as the Victim Compensation Scheme and other protective measures aimed at improving the status of women. She emphasized that laws and policies are in place to protect women, but their effective implementation and access to these resources remain critical.
The programme was chaired by Renthunglo Kikon, Centre Administrator, SAKHI-OSC, welcome address by C. James B. Ezung, District Programme Officer, Department of Social Welfare, Wokha. Ongarhoni, Caseworker at the Child Helpline, DCPU, provided an awareness session on Child Helpline 1098. The event also featured a special performance, “Everything That Glitters,” by Merithung Lotha, Gender Specialist at DHEW, and a short play by students from Santsuo School, Wokha.
The celebrations concluded with a special performance by N. Chompen Jami and the felicitation of the best-performing Anganwadi and ASHA workers. The programme ended with a vote of thanks by Renbomo Ezung, NCS, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Wokha.
