International Women’s Day 2026 was observed at the Capital Convention Centre, Kohima on 7th March 2026 under the theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.” The event was graced by MLA & Advisor, Department of Social Welfare, Wangpang Konyak as the chief host, while Minister for Environment, Forest, Climate Change and Village Guards, C. L. John attended as the special guest. The programme began with an invocation by Rev. Izieteilung Tering, State Chaplain, followed by a welcome address delivered by Director, Women Resource Development, Vilone Sakhrie.
In his address, Minister for Environment, Forest, Climate Change and Village Guards, C. L. John honoured the valuable contributions of women in Nagaland and across the world, stating that the day recognises the sacrifices, achievements, and barriers overcome by women in every sphere of life. He noted that women in Nagaland continue to excel in academics, civil services, and professional careers while also serving as the backbone of families and communities. Highlighting growing political representation, he mentioned that Nagaland currently has two women representatives, reflecting increasing confidence in women’s leadership, and recalled Rano M. Shaiza as a pioneer who paved the way for future generations.  CL John acknowledged the role of the Naga Mothers’ Association in promoting peace and social reform. He also emphasised the need to address challenges such as gender-based violence and encouraged women and young girls to pursue their aspirations without fear.
    Chief Host, Wangpang Konyak, Advisor, Department of Social Welfare, said the theme serves as a reminder that rights must be claimed, justice must be delivered, and concrete action must be taken for women and girls who continue to face barriers in access, opportunity, and equality. He highlighted that the Government of India is promoting women-led development through initiatives such as Mission Shakti and noted the role of the Department of Rural Development through NSRLM in empowering women by forming Self Help Groups that provide opportunities for savings, credit access, and livelihood activities. Expressing concern over crimes against women, he urged society to stand against violence and work collectively to uphold the dignity and rights of women.
    Delivering the keynote address, Secretary, Department of Social Welfare, Limawabang Jamir, IAS, stated that women deserve honour and respect every day and that the occasion is an opportunity to renew society’s commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of women and girls. He informed that since its inception in 2016 up to February 2026, the One Stop Centre in Nagaland has received over 1,800 cases related to violence against women.
    Supported by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the One Stop Centre scheme is being implemented by the Department of Social Welfare, providing integrated support to women affected by violence. Jamir also highlighted Mission Shakti as an umbrella scheme for the safety and empowerment of women and noted that the programme is being observed across all 17 districts of Nagaland. He further informed that the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) will conduct a week-long Mahila Jan Sunwai from March 9 for grievance redressal.
    The programme also witnessed the felicitation of women achievers under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM) for 2025–26. Doyal SHG from Dhansiripar, Dimapur was awarded the Best Self Help Group, while Tsithrongse Village VLO from Dhansiripar, Dimapur received the award for Best Village Level Organisation. In the Cluster Level Federation category, Oasis Federation, Jalukie Block was recognised as the Best CLF under the 3-year category, and Unique CLF was honoured as the Best CLF under the 5-year category.
    Individual achievements were also recognised under NSRLM. Arila Sangtam received the award for Most Inspiring Placement, while Diethovino Chutso was honoured as the Social Changemaker. Neisavino Mera was awarded Best SHG Woman in Financial Inclusion, and Napaholi H. Muru was recognised as the Most Enterprising SHG Woman. Angeli Medeo was also felicitated for her Outstanding Leadership in Farm Livelihoods.
    The event further included the felicitation of Anganwadi workers for their dedicated service. Amekali K. Yepthomi of Old Town B Anganwadi Centre under Zunheboto ICDS Project, who joined the Social Welfare Department in 2017, and Joyce Murry of Diphupar B-4 Anganwadi Centre under Dimapur (Rural) ICDS Project, who joined the department in 2007, were honoured.
    Two Kohima Municipal Council workers, Kelhouleu and Khriebou, serving as Sanitary Sweepers under Kohima Municipal Council, were also felicitated during the programme.
    The programme also conferred the NSCW Excellence Award 2026. Ponglem Konyak, President of Konyak Nyipuh Sheko Khong (KNSK), and Apeuna Iheilung, President of the Zeliangrong Mothers’ Organisation, were honoured for their contributions to society and community welfare.
    A special song was presented by Shau Evans, and an awareness video on Mission Shakti was screened during the programme.
    The programme was chaired by Theodore Yanthan, Joint Secretary, Department of Social Welfare, and concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Joint Secretary, Department of Rural Development and Mission Director, NSRLM, Moa Sangtam.
    
(Mainodi, IA)