Ampati, March 7: The South West Garo Hills district celebrated International Women’s Day at the Multi-Facility Centre, Ampati, on Friday, with a vibrant convergence program organized by the District Social Welfare Office, Health & Family Welfare Department and the Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS). The event, themed “Accelerate Action – Moving Towards Gender Equality,” aimed to raise awareness on gender issues and honor women achievers.
The program was graced by Hema Nayak, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of South West Garo Hills, as the Chief Guest, and S. N. Marak, MPS, Additional Superintendent of Police, as the Guest of Honour. Women officers of the district, along with women from diverse backgrounds, actively participated in the event.
A key highlight of the celebration was a series of awareness sessions on gender-based issues. T. D. Ch. Marak, LCPO, DCPU, Ampati, delivered a session on Gender-Based Violence, while S. N. Marak, MPS, ASP, spoke on Women’s Safety and Security. These discussions underscored the importance of addressing societal challenges and ensuring a safer environment for women.
The event also showcased cultural performances, including a welcome song by Chengkom Nokatchi VO, a skit by ASHAs, and a dance performance by beneficiaries of the Social Welfare Department.
One of the most inspiring moments of the program was the recognition of women achievers, including Lastmania T. Sangma, Brand Ambassador of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme, who has won 9 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze medals in Inter-State and Inter-District Taekwondo Championships; Trishna Ch. Marak and Silse N. Sangma, PWD SHG members; ANMs of Gopinathkilla Sub Centre and Rongsangabagre Sub Centre were recognized for their contributions to healthcare.
As part of the celebration, a Tug-of-War competition was held and prizes were distributed to Japang VO, who secured the 1st position, followed by Chengkom Nokatchi VO in 2nd place.
In her address, Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak, IAS, emphasized the progress women have made in Meghalaya in terms of literacy and labor force participation, highlighting the state’s unique matrilineal society. However, she also expressed concern over the challenges faced by women in traditional leadership roles, citing examples of nokmas (female traditional heads) who, despite holding legal authority, often face economic hardships. She also urged women to take advantage of free Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) screenings offered by the Health Department and encouraged women health workers to prioritize their own well-being while serving the community.
To lead by example, Deputy Commissioner Hema Nayak underwent a blood pressure and blood glucose test at the free health screening camp set up by the Medical Department at the venue.
The event also served as a marketplace for women entrepreneurs, providing them with a platform to showcase and sell their products, further promoting economic empowerment.
The International Women’s Day celebration in South West Garo Hills successfully reinforced the message of accelerating action towards gender equality, empowering women through awareness, recognition, and economic opportunities.
