Kohima, Nagaland Minister for Forests, Environment and Climate Change, C L John, on Saturday called for stronger collective efforts to address gender-based violence and unequal opportunities, noting that such issues remain a major impediment to women’s empowerment.
Speaking at the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day in Kohima under the theme ‘Rights, Justice and Work: For All Women and Girls’, the minister said the day is not just about celebration, but also about recognizing the sacrifices, struggles and achievements of women in every sphere of life.
The program was organized by the Nagaland Department of Social Welfare, in collaboration with the Nagaland State Women’s Commission, Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission, Directorate of Women Resource Development and Kohima Municipal Council.
John stressed that Naga women have always played a crucial role in shaping society, describing them as the backbone of families, villages and communities.
He said that from agricultural fields to markets and from classrooms to hospitals, women continue to contribute tirelessly to the progress of the country.
He also noted the encouraging progress in women’s participation in governance and leadership, noting that Nagaland currently has two women in the state assembly and one representing the state in the Rajya Sabha.
The Minister also noted the contribution of pioneering leader Rano M Shesa, the first woman Member of Parliament from Nagaland, whose leadership paved the way for future generations.
At the same time, John stressed the need to urgently address issues related to gender-based violence, noting that such acts are human rights violations and obstacles to gender equality.
He urged the community to create an environment where every girl child in Nagaland can grow with confidence, dignity and equal opportunities.
In his speech, Social Welfare Advisor Wangbang Konyak said that the theme of the 2026 celebration calls for concrete steps to promote women’s rights and remove barriers to progress.
He said that the Nagaland State Commission for Women has been actively promoting women empowerment and gender equality by engaging with various institutions and stakeholders since its inception.
He also highlighted that the Committee established the NSCW Awards in 2021 to honor women achievers who have made significant contributions to the upliftment and empowerment of women in Nagaland.
The awards aim to recognize excellence, inspire younger generations and promote gender equality in various sectors.
While noting that Nagaland is often cited as one of the safest states for women according to the National Crime Records Bureau, Konyak acknowledged that crimes against women and girls have been increasing over the years.
He therefore called on society to confront the reality of violence, encourage the participation of men and boys, and work collectively to end gender-based violence.
In her keynote address, Social Welfare Minister Limawabang Jamir said the state’s Comprehensive Services Center has dealt with more than 1,800 cases of violence against women since 2016, many of which remain unreported due to stigma and lack of support systems.
He also highlighted the initiatives under the Mission Shakti scheme aimed at ensuring women’s safety, security and empowerment.
The program also included felicitation of self-help group achievers under Nagaland State Rural Livelihood Mission, as well as municipal and anganwadi workers for their service, besides presenting NSCW Achievers Awards to women who have contributed significantly to the society.
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