TAWANG, Mar 8: International Women’s Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Zomkhang Hall in Tawang on Sunday through a vibrant programme organized by the district administration in collaboration with the departments of Women and Child Development, Information & Public Relations, and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA).
The event brought together women officers, public representatives, entrepreneurs and mothers from across the district to celebrate the strength, resilience and achievements of women.
A major highlight of the event was the felicitation of Ani Dr Gendun Lhamo, a Buddhist nun from Singsur Ani Gonpa, for her remarkable academic achievement. She recently earned a doctorate from the Department of Buddhist Studies, University of Delhi, for her research titled “The Mahayana Buddhist Nuns of Himalayan Regions of India.” Her accomplishment was hailed as an inspiration for women and girls across the region.
Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, ZPM Sonam Norzin, JMFC Bompi Gapak and Lt Col Ambika Jodha attended the programme along with several distinguished speakers and community members.
Several resource persons delivered informative sessions on key issues related to women’s safety, rights, health and empowerment. Inspector N Angu, OC of Tawang Police Station, spoke about crimes against women and the importance of awareness and reporting.
Advocate Lhawang Norbu from DLSA highlighted legal rights and protections available to women, while Advocate Rinchin Wangmu from the One Stop Centre discussed welfare services and support mechanisms for women in distress.
Health and well-being were also key themes of the programme. Dr Pema Yuton, SMO of KDS District Hospital, spoke on menstrual health awareness, while clinical psychologist Tenzin Dolma highlighted the importance of mental health and emotional well-being. Ani Dr Gendun Lhamo shared insights into monastic education and the role of Buddhist nuns in society, and Lt Col Ambika Jodha informed the gathering about opportunities for women in the Indian Army.
ZPM Sonam Norzin shared her personal journey and experiences, offering perspectives on women’s empowerment, leadership and community development.
In her welcome address, DC Namgyal Angmo emphasized three key priorities for women’s progress in Tawang -- ensuring no girl becomes a school dropout, promoting economic independence for women, and strengthening women’s health and well-being.
The programme also featured musical performances by local singers dedicated to women. Additionally, the NCD wing of District Hospital Tawang conducted free haemoglobin screening for women during the event.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Commissioner Tenzin Jambey, reaffirming the collective commitment to building a more inclusive and empowered society for women.
