Governor of Manipur, Dr. Najma Heptulla showed her respect to the fact that Northeast woman especially woman in Manipur state is truly empowered than the woman from other states of India. She was addressing gatherings in the celebration function of International Women’s Day at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan.
Dr.Najma Heptulla further added that it is possible because of the traditionally better state in existing social rung than other women in other states of India. Women in north-eastern region have actually grown up in a more liberal society. There are less hostile challenges and male dominant environment.
Addressing the gatherings, Governor also stated that she is working on various initiatives for giving more economic independence to the women in Manipur. This can only be possible by making them more skilled. Dr. Najma also appreciated various women’s associations and various civil society organizations for giving their best efforts to empower women in the state.
On International Women’s Day, Governor of Manipur has also asked all the women to give more attention to ponder on what we can do for developing state of women in the Manipur state. In his speech, she highlighted the achievements of Marry Kom and Mirabai Chanu.
She said that Manipuri women are leading in various sectors and they have earned recognition in national and even international levels. Manipuri women are now earning name in sports and various other professions. They are having more economic independence and somewhere supporting their families without looking for support from a male in the home. For this, she cited Ima Keithel as an ideal example of Manipuri woman’s struggle and hard work.
In this celebration, Nemcha Kipgen, Social Welfare and Cooperation Minister, was also present. Minister Nemcha Kipgen expressed that Manipuri women should be empowered in all settings, rural and urban. There is a great need of working for ‘gender equality’. Yes, empowering women is very necessary for bringing gender equality. She also urged women to mind their strengths and abilities as identification of strength will give base to move towards a world of empowerment.
The function was also attended by Commissioner, Social Welfare, H Dileep Singh, Director, Social Welfare, Jacintha Lazarus, women achievers from different parts of the state, amongst others. Manipur State Women Development Cooperation, Samurailatpam Satyabhama Devi graced the occasion as Guest of Honour. Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Karam Shyam, Chairperson was also present in this program as Special Guest.
Sixteen women from different parts of the state were also honoured in this celebration of International Women’s Day. The agenda behind such celebration was to give more concern over women empowerments. We all understand that women across the globe are facing number of hurdles in her life. There are many concerns relevant to social, religious, political and cultural over which society should pay attention. This celebration was over a theme, ‘Time is Now: Rural and Urban Activists Transforming Women’s Lives’.