Members of Central Women Wing of the Naga People’s Front, Special Guest Prof Dr Rosemary Dzuvichu and others during the celebration of the International Women’s Day in Kohima on March 7. (Photo Courtesy: NPF Central Women Wing)
NPF Central Central Women Wing celebrates International Women's Day
Kohima, March 7 (MExN): Education and leadership opportunities for women are key to building an empowered and equitable society, Prof Dr Rosemary Dzuvichu said while addressing the International Women’s Day (IAD) celebration organised by the Central Women Wing of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) at its Central Office in Kohima.
Addressing women leaders as the special guest, Dr Dzuvichu emphasised that the theme, “Give to Gain,” calls for prioritising education for women and the girl child to build an empowered society.
Ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women is essential for justice, safety and inclusive economic growth, she said, stressing that equality must go beyond words to ensure women and girls everywhere live with dignity and fairness.
Dr Dzuvichu, Advisor of the Naga Mothers’ Association and Co-Convenor of the Global Naga Forum, also reflected on the history of women’s political participation in Nagaland, noting that political empowerment for women began in 1977 with the election of Rano Shaiza as the first woman Member of Parliament from the state.
She further highlighted that the election of two women members to the Nagaland Legislative Assembly today represents the growing voice of women in the state’s highest decision-making body.
Dr Dzuvichu said the implementation of 33% reservation for women in urban local bodies has brought significant changes, resulting in over a hundred women being elected to municipal bodies after years of litigation, opposition and threats faced by women leaders.
She expressed gratitude to the state government and Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio for successfully conducting the urban local body elections with the mandated reservation, informed a press release from the Media Cell, NPF Central Women Wing,
Underscoring the role of women leaders in political parties, she said they have a responsibility to bring about positive social, political and economic change while advocating for women’s rights, education, healthcare and gender equality. She also urged women leaders to support policies and laws aimed at protecting women and addressing gender-based violence.
Highlighting the growing migration of girls and young women to cities in search of employment, Dr Dzuvichu called for strategies to create better employment opportunities through entrepreneurship and skill development programmes.
She also noted that issues such as domestic violence, sexual harassment, trafficking and online abuse remain widespread, and urged women leaders to work actively towards addressing these challenges.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Dr Chumben Murry, who is also Senior Vice President and Central Office Bearer in charge of the NPF Central Women Wing, and NPF MLA and Secretary General Achumbemo Kikon also shared words of encouragement with the women leaders.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Working President of the NPF Central Women Wing Vikali A Zhimomi. Vice President Hetoli Achumi pronounced the invocation, while Central Women Wing President Sano Vamuzo delivered the welcome address. Working President Yanhola delivered the vote of thanks.
