The International Women’s Day 2024 was celebrated on March 8 at The Heritage, Kohima under the theme “Invest in women: Accelerate Progress”.
Special guest Salhoutuonuo Kruse, Minister Women Resource Development and Horticulture in her speech delved on how throughout history, women have been the backbone of society, resiliently carrying the weight of their roles with grace, intelligence, and unwavering determination. “From taking care of their families and nurturing the next generation, to driving economic growth and leading in various sectors, women have proven time and time again that they possess incredible potential. Yet, for so long, they continue to face countless barriers and inequalities that hinder their progress and limit their impact,” stated Kruse.
The minister acknowledged that the time has come to recognize the untapped potential that lies within women and invest in them – to provide them with equal opportunities, resources, and support so that they can thrive and succeed.
“And foremost, we need to invest in girls’ education which is the only catalyst for positive change. When we educate a girl, we educate a nation. By investing in their education, we are Investing in a brighter future for all,” remarked Kruse.
Highlighting the essence of economic empowerment in achieving gender equality, Kruse viewed that when women have access to capital, financial services, and job opportunities, they become powerful drivers of economic growth.
“By investing in women entrepreneurs, we can unlock a vast potential for innovation, creativity, and economic prosperity. When women flourish in the business world, their successes inspire and create a ripple effect, shaping a more equitable society for all,” stated Kruse citing the example of YouthNet by Advisor Hekani Jakhalu Kense.
The need to invest in women’s health was also another point of focus where the Legislator mentioned that healthy women lead to healthy families, healthy communities, and a healthier world. “Women bear the burden of reproductive health and often face unique challenges related to maternal care and access to healthcare services. To empower our women, we need to create more awareness among our womenfolk on healthcare services, reproductive rights, gender-based violence, gender disparities etc,” advocated Kruse.
However the most important aspect, according to the Minister, is recognizing the importance of investing in women’s leadership.
“Women bring diverse perspectives, empathy, and collaboration to the decision-making table. And when women are equally represented in positions of power and influence, policies are more inclusive, societies become more just, and progress is accelerated. It is crucial to support and mentor aspiring women leaders, provide them with the necessary training, and create an environment that allows them to break through the glass ceiling,” stated Kruse.
The Minister reminded that investing in women is not just a matter of morality but a matter of social and economic progress, and is investment for a better tomorrow in a society where opportunities are equal, achievements are celebrated, and progress knows no boundaries.
She also urged both men and women to recommit themselves to invest in women, and continue to make the efforts and provide them with the tools they need to succeed to accelerate progress, create a more sustainable future, and reach new heights of an equitable society.
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The program was followed by honouring Women Padma Shree Awards : Chubalemla Ao (1981, Social Works), Neidonuo Angami (2000, social works), Temsula Ao (2007, Literature & Education), Sentila T Yanger (2008, Art), Dr P. Kilemsungla (2014, Literature and Education), Lentina Ao Thakkar (2018),Social Works),Neihunuo Sorhie (2023, Art),Sano Vamuzo ( Social Works, 2024).
The felicitation of Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW )Award 2024 by chairperson Nagaland State Commission for Women W.Nginyeih Konyak was held. The Awardees are : C.Tsurila, Nengneithem Hengma, K.Ela.
The felicitation of Self help Group(SHG )women Achiever’s was presented by the State Program Manager (SISD) Nagaland state Rural livelihoods mission Khriezovonuo Lhoungu. The Awardees were Tetemjen SHG, Azikeh VLO, Kedakelie VLO, Japfüphi Thenuko.
The most financial Credit Linkage was awarded to Viketuno Edith Rutsa, Gender Champion to Wepretsou Kupa, Lakhpatti Didi awarded to Bendangenla Weo, Most enterprising SHG Women to Rhucheu Marhu, and Most inspiring placement Easter Konyak. The program was earlier blessed with invocation by Pastor Kedo Peseyie, City Church Kohima.
Meanwhile, Advisor for Social Welfare, Wangpang Konyak greeted the crowd. Martha R Ritse IAS, Secretary social welfare gave the keynote address. Director, Social welfare Tosheli Zhimomi presented the vote of thanks. Commissioner and Secretary Women Resource Development Zhothisa Dawhuo also gave an introduction to Myki Fest.
The program was followed by an Exhibition and Sale of Myki Products, SHG products Information booths on women centric schemes.
This program was jointly organised by Department of Social Welfare, Department of Women Resource Development, Nagaland State Commission for Women, Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission and State Hub for Empowerment of Women – Mission Shakti
