Nagaland marks International Women’s Day with calls to address gender violence while honouring women achievers in Kohima celebration.
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KOHIMA — Nagaland marked International Women’s Day on Saturday with yet another call to confront gender-based violence and ensure justice and equal opportunities for women and girls.
The state-level celebration, held at the Capital Convention Centre in Kohima, brought together government officials, civil society representatives and community leaders.
Addressing the programme, Minister for Environment, Forest, Climate Change and Village Guards, CL John, said that the occasion was not merely a celebration but also a reminder to recognise the sacrifices, struggles and achievements of women.
“In Nagaland, women have always played a vital role in shaping society. They are the backbone of families, the strength of villages and a guiding force in churches and communities,” he said.
While pointing out that women in the state are increasingly excelling in education and competitive examinations, the minister stressed that challenges such as gender-based violence and unequal access to opportunities continue to persist.
He called for collective efforts to address gender-based violence, describing it as a violation of human rights and a major obstacle to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Advisor for Social Welfare Wangpang Konyak said that the observance of Women’s Day should go beyond symbolic celebrations and translate into meaningful action.
While stating that the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) often lists Nagaland among the safer states for women, the advisor acknowledged that crimes against women and girls have been rising in recent years.
He urged Naga society to confront the reality of violence, encourage participation of men and boys in addressing the issue, and challenge discriminatory attitudes.
Chairperson of Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW), Nginyeih Konyak, said that the commission remains committed to addressing gender-related concerns and promoting women’s empowerment in line with constitutional values and international frameworks on gender equality.
Director of Women Resource Development Vilone Sakhrie said that the contributions of women often go unnoticed despite their immense role in every sphere of life. “Women’s Day should be celebrated every day because women contribute immensely, often silently, to society,” she said.
Secretary and AHoD of Social Welfare Limawabang Jamir pointed out that women in Nagaland continue to face barriers in accessing justice.
He revealed that since its establishment in 2016, the One Stop Centre in the state has handled more than 1,800 cases of violence against women up to February 2026.
According to him, many women hesitate to seek help due to social stigma, fear and lack of socio-economic support, particularly in cases involving domestic violence and sexual assault.
He stressed that gender equality is not solely a women’s issue but a societal responsibility, calling for collective efforts to strengthen access to justice for women and girls.
Achievers honoured
During the programme, several women achievers were felicitated for their contributions in various fields.
Four self-help groups (institutional category) and five individuals from self-help groups were honoured under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM). Two municipal workers and two Anganwadi workers were also recognised.
The NSCW Excellence Award 2026 was presented to Ponglem Konyak, president of KNSK, for her contributions to social and community service.
The NSCW Award 2026 was conferred on Apeuna Iheilung, president of the Zeliangrong Mipui organisation, in recognition of her leadership and service to society.