Nagaland Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change C L John on Saturday urged society to take stronger and collective action to tackle gender-based violence, describing it as a major obstacle to women’s empowerment and equal opportunities.
Speaking at the state-level celebration of International Women’s Day in Kohima, held under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action: For All Women and Girls”, the minister said the occasion should serve as a reminder not only to celebrate women’s achievements but also to acknowledge their struggles and sacrifices.
The programme was organised by the Department of Social Welfare, Nagaland, in collaboration with the Nagaland State Commission for Women, the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, the Directorate of Women Resource Development and the Kohima Municipal Council.
Addressing the gathering, John said Naga women have historically played a vital role in shaping society and sustaining communities.
He noted that women contribute significantly across sectors—from agriculture and trade to education and healthcare—strengthening the social and economic fabric of the state.
The minister also pointed to encouraging progress in women’s participation in governance, noting that Nagaland currently has two women members in the state assembly and one representative in the Rajya Sabha.
He recalled the legacy of Rano M Shaiza, whose leadership helped pave the way for greater political participation by women in the state.
However, John stressed that incidents of gender-based violence must be addressed with urgency, calling them clear violations of human rights and a serious challenge to achieving gender equality.
He appealed to the public to help create a society where every girl child can grow up with dignity, confidence and equal opportunities.
Also speaking at the event, Advisor for Social Welfare Wangpang Konyak said the theme of this year’s celebration highlights the need for concrete action to strengthen women’s rights and remove barriers to progress.
Konyak noted that the Nagaland State Commission for Women has been actively promoting gender equality since its inception by working with different institutions and stakeholders.
He also highlighted the NSCW Awards, introduced in 2021, which recognise women achievers who have contributed to the empowerment and upliftment of women in Nagaland.
While pointing out that Nagaland has often been regarded as one of the safer states for women based on data from the National Crime Records Bureau, he acknowledged that crimes against women and girls have been gradually rising.
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He urged society to confront the issue openly, encourage the involvement of men and boys, and work together to eliminate gender-based violence.
Delivering the keynote address, Social Welfare Secretary Limawabang Jamir said the state’s One Stop Centre has handled more than 1,800 cases of violence against women since 2016.
He added that many such incidents remain unreported due to stigma and limited support systems.
Jamir also highlighted initiatives under the Mission Shakti scheme, which aims to enhance women’s safety, security and empowerment.
The event concluded with the felicitation of Self Help Group achievers under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, as well as municipal and Anganwadi workers for their service.
The NSCW Achievers Awards were also presented to women who have made significant contributions to society.
