Phomla Hoichem, the apex women body of the Phom community and District Hub for Empowerment of Women in convergence with NRLM-SHGs, SBI & SCK (IDAN) Longleng, celebrated international women's day on the theme " Leading the Change: Women shaping a sustainable future " on 7th March 2026 at public ground Longleng, with Ase Zao, lady wife of MLA, A. Pongshi Phom, as the special guest.
    Ase Zao, in her address said despite global unrest, the Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation (ENPO) rejoices in the achievement of Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).  She expressed her gratitude to the organizers and the district hub for women's empowerment and Phomla Hoichem for organising the program. Highlighting the achievements of Phom women, she said "Women are powerful in their own ways" and noted that women play a vital role in shaping society, starting from the family. She pointed out that behind every successful man, there is a woman she advises women to stay busy to avoid temptation. She also inaugurated the exhibition stalls setup by various departments and SHGs.
    EAC Yongnyah, Imkongnukla Ao, and Chairman & Team Leader Lemsachenlok, Y. Nuklu Phom also spoke at the program. The President Phomla Hoichem, A. Ainyu Phom delivered the welcome address, while the significance of the day was said by M. Chingong Phom. Team Harmony Heritage presented a song called Awe-Inspiring, while the Acknowledgement & Awards was presented by, DMC, DHEW, P. Phongla Phom.
    Senior Gynaecologist from District Hospital Longleng, Dr. Nounenuo Terhase, spoke on HPV vaccination campaign against Cervical Cancer. The programme was chaired by Cultural Secretary ENWO, Lipom Phom, and commenced with an invocation pronounced by Associate Pastor for women, Ao Baptist Church Longleng, Asangla Imchen. A dedicatory prayer was also proposed by Women Secretary PBCA, Angbhenla Phom. The event acknowledged the importance of women's contributions and their roles in society.

(Manjong Phom, IA Longleng)