District Administration, Department of Social Welfare, DHEW, Sakhi-OSC in collaboration with Baptist Women Union, Mon Town organised International Women’s Day with the theme “Right. Justice. Action. For all women and Girls” on 7th March 2026 at Social Welfare Conference Hall, Mon Town. B. Kerry Konyak, Advocate, Meghalaya High Court was the resource person for the programme.
    The resource person explained the rights and privileges of a woman and fundamental rights- Rights to equality and equality before the law. All these rights are given to empower women in the society, he added. He encouraged the gathering to know their rights and stand up for their justice and action. He also explained the social structure of our society- the cultural and traditional limitations for women folk and asserted that all these barriers will be overcome through education. Stating that change will begin from respective homes at the grassroot level, he urged to implement equal respect and opportunities from the family. 
    Kedoseno Rino, EAC Mon in her short speech said being a woman in our society means embodying the resilient backbone of family and community, where our role fuses strength, cultural guardianship and interdependence with men. She said it is truly a blessing to be born as a woman- a force of resilience, nurturing and strength, where society cannot progress when half of its population is neglected. Asserting that Women form a vital part of society as mothers, daughters, sisters and wives, she said when you educate a woman, you educate a generation. She encouraged everyone to commit to uphold rights, delivering justice and driving action to build a stronger and more inclusive world.
    Neijoi Konyak, Specialist, DHEW highlighted the components of Mission Shakti. Anganwadi Workers:- Khahngom from Mon Project, Monghai Konyak from Tizit Project, Sony from Aboi Project, Ngapsha from Phomching project, Teme Konyak from Wakching Project and Ahong Mercy Konyak from Tobu Project were felicitated for their good performance.
    The programme was chaired by Ngapkai, Para Medical Personnel, OSC. Welcome address was delivered by Atong Yanlem, DWO, Mon and invocation was pronounced by Roiseng, Finance Secretary, Baptist Women Union. A Special Number was presented by Esther, while the program culminated with a vote of thanks by Gonyei Konyak, Specialist in Financial Literacy, DHEW.

(M. Pelih, IA Mon)