International Women’s Day celebrated across State in befitting way

ITANAGAR, Mar 8: The International Women’s Day 2026 themed ‘Give to Gain’ was celebrated across the State in style, with a slew of activities marking the special occasion.

TEZU: International Women’s Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at Tezu through a vibrant programme aimed at promoting women’s empowerment, legal awareness, and social participation.

Organized by the DIPRO, Lohit and ICDS Lohit, in collaboration with the All Mishmi Women Welfare Society (AMWWS), Tezu, the programme was graced by Basanlu Yun Dellang, ZPC Lohit, and S Chai Pul, retd Jt Director Health Services.

The programme began with a welcome song presented by AMWWS Tezu, setting a festive tone for the celebration. Dr Rinkiolu Chai, Vice Chairperson AMWWS, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the importance of empowering women through education, awareness, and community participation.

The event featured a series of cultural performances, including a group dance presented by the Women Cell of Indira Gandhi Govt College (IGGC), Tezu. A special dance performance was also presented by women officers of Lohit district led by Pemchom Lama, Jt Director ICDS, which added vibrancy and enthusiasm to the programme.

A key highlight of the event was an awareness talk on women’s rights and legal provisions delivered by Maya Maga, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Tezu. She elaborated on important legislations aimed at protecting women, including the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, and the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, encouraging women to be aware of their legal rights and seek support whenever necessary.

The event also featured a street play on domestic violence awareness performed by the Women Cell of IGGC Tezu, effectively conveying the message of standing against abuse and promoting dignity and equality for women.

The ZPC, in her address, emphasized the importance of empowering women through education, awareness, and equal opportunities. She encouraged women to come forward, be aware of their rights, and actively participate in social and developmental activities for building a stronger and more inclusive society.

The cultural segment further included a Mishmi group dance presented by the Women Cell of IGGC Tezu, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

YINGKIONG: APWWS, Yingkiong in collaboration with DA, Dept of IPR, DLSA, ArSRLM and WCD, Yingkiong celebrated International Women’s Day themed ‘Give to Gain’ at the multipurpose community hall here in a meaningful and vibrant manner.

Addressing the gathering, ZPC Upper Siang Api Kombo stated that the day is significant for everyone as it provides an opportunity to reflect, retrospect and discuss ways to move forward towards a better future for women and society at large.

Speaking on the importance of parenting, she emphasized that when both parents understand and fulfil their responsibilities in nurturing their children, the children grow up to become responsible members of society. She remarked that children are the future, and it is the foremost duty of parents to guide, protect, and nurture them so that they become better individuals.

Expressing concern over the increasing cases of drug abuse in Arunachal Pradesh, including Upper Siang district, the ZPC called upon all stakeholders to come forward and work collectively to fight against the drug menace in order to safeguard the future of the younger generation.

Appreciating the efforts of APWWS Yingkiong, she noted that the organization cannot function single-handedly and requires the support and cooperation of society. She urged everyone to extend their support so that APWWS can continue working effectively for the welfare of women and children in the district. She also assured her continued support to the organization.

Secretary District Legal Services Authority (Yingkiong), Khyoda Yaluk highlighted various legal services, facilities, and helpline numbers available under DLSA for women and children.

Resource person and legal advisor of APWWS Yingkiong, Meenakshi Jerang delivered an awareness talk on women’s legal rights, focusing on important laws related to women. She elaborated on provisions related to the Domestic Violence Act, prevention of child marriage, Zero FIR, and legal procedures, stressing the importance of promoting legal literacy among women.

Mori Banggo Multipurpose Cooperative Society president Oyop Taron administered the Gender Pledge and spoke on the importance of women’s self-reliance and empowerment, with special emphasis on economic and social empowerment through Self Help Groups under ArSRLM.

APWWS Yingkiong president Kasimang Jopir Pazing appealed to women from all sections of society to come together to strengthen APWWS and work collectively for the welfare of women and children across the district.

The programme featured several cultural performances including the APWWS anthem, dance performances by the APWWS senior group, Gorkha women group, APWWS Simong Ane team, and a Kathak performance by the Indian Classical Dance Institute, Yingkiong, added on to the celebration.

Earlier in the morning, to mark the occasion, the APWWS Yingkiong team hoisted the flag at its office premises here.

Among others present were SDO (HQs) Toni Mitkong, District Medical Officer Dr Gepeng Litin, CDPO Yingkiong, BMM ArSRLM, BDO Yingkiong, executive members of APWWS Yingkiong and Simong, along with women from different walks of life who enthusiastically participated in the celebration.

NIRJULI: The Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), NERIST, in collaboration with its Ladies Club celebrated International Women’s Day at the Seminar Hall of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, NERIST.

The program was graced by Dr Oyik Tamut, Assistant Professor at TRIHMS, who attended as a resource person. In her insightful address, she spoke on women’s mental health and hygiene, emphasizing the importance of self-care, emotional well-being, and awareness of health issues affecting women.

N Anushreya, chief patron of the Ladies Club, in her inspiring speech, encouraged women to recognize their strength, support one another, and contribute confidently to society and professional spaces.

The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from lady faculty members, staff, and members of the Ladies Club. The event featured a variety of cultural performances including poetry recitation, a Kathputli (puppet) dance, group dances, and song presentations by the members. A display of handcrafted items and creative works by the participants added vibrancy to the occasion.

The program was coordinated by IIC members Dr Yamem Tamut and Dr Ranibala. The event concluded on a joyful note, celebrating the spirit, creativity, and empowerment of women, while fostering a sense of unity and appreciation among the participants.

ZIRO: The Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS), Ziro Unit celebrated International Women’s Day with great enthusiasm at Takka Ko Resort here today.

Graced by Lower Subansiri Deputy Commissioner Oli Perme and Zilla Parishad Chairperson Hibu Dumi, the celebration commenced with a mass tree plantation drive around Seeh Lake, followed by the flag hoisting by the DC.

In her address, the DC lauded the organizing committee for successfully conducting the programme. She remarked that the event was especially beautiful as it was entirely managed by women. Recalling the struggles of her own mother who single-handedly raised three children and guided them to become officers despite numerous challenges, she urged everyone to accord the highest respect to mothers.

She further informed that recognizing the vital role of women in governance and society, the government has introduced 33 percent reservation for women in the recently held Panchayat elections, which resulted in the election of the first woman ZPC of the district.

The ZPC appreciated the dedicated efforts of the APWWS Ziro Unit, stating that the organization has been rendering motherly services to society. She extended her full support to the unit and urged women to continue motivating and supporting one another. As a gesture of encouragement, she pledged her one month’s salary to the APWWS Ziro Unit as a token of appreciation.

Organizing Chairman-cum-Chief Advisor APWWS Ziro Unit, Mudo Dumi reflected on the changing role of women in society. She stated that women in earlier times were mostly confined to homes and farms, but today they are leading in various fields. She proudly noted that in Lower Subansiri district, women currently occupy several key positions such as Deputy Commissioner, ZPC, ZPMs, Deputy Director WCD, District Medical Officer, DACO, CDPO, DDMO and DTO among others.

She also recalled that between 2013 and 2016, members of the APWWS Ziro Unit actively destroyed illegal cultivation of bhang (marijuana) even in remote villages, for which they were popularly known as the ‘Bhang Party’.

Dy Director WCD, Ziro, Gyati Maya Kago sensitized the gathering about various schemes being implemented by the department. She highlighted the services of the One Stop Centre at Kudung Barang, which provides free accommodation, food and counselling to victims of domestic violence. She encouraged women not to silently endure domestic violence but to report such cases for timely support and intervention.

She also informed about the District Child Protection Unit and the Child Helpline number 1098. According to her, 52 beneficiaries from the district are receiving Rs 4000 per month under categories such as orphans, single parents and persons suffering from life-threatening diseases. She also spoke about old age, widow and disability pensions being provided under SAJETA. On the occasion, she distributed sanitary pads to adolescent girls.

The celebration featured colourful cultural performances by women groups and a fashion show choreographed by Sumpi Khoda. 

NAHARLAGUN: To mark International Women’s Day, a high-energy celebration was successfully organized today at the Govt Hr Sec School (GHSS) Football Ground, Model Village, Naharlagun. Held under the MY Bharat initiative, the event brought together youth, students, and community members to champion the spirit of equality and empowerment.

The celebration was graced by Mini Bui Gyati, a renowned social worker, actress, and former “Miss & Mrs Top Model India”, who emphasized that education, sports, and leadership are the primary pillars for empowering the next generation of women.

Phassang Sama, Principal GHSS Naharlagun, and Nada Apa, District Sports Officer (Itanagar) lauded the MY Bharat platform for its pivotal role in integrating community engagement with youth development, highlighting how such initiatives foster both personal and national growth.

The day featured intense athletic competitions showcasing the talent and grit of local participants. Notable results included Tanvja Limbu securing gold in the 100m sprint, while Likha Kompu and Dindo Yagang dominated the 200m and 400m races, respectively.

Distinguished sports personalities, including Jumpe Maro (PeT), Tarh Sumpi (football coach), and Yabang Tali (athletic coach), were present to mentor and inspire young girls to pursue fitness and professional sports careers.

PASIGHAT: International Women’s Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the general football ground, Pasighat under the initiative of My Bharat, East Siang, aimed at recognizing the achievements and contributions of women while encouraging youth participation in sports and community development.

The event was graced by Ruth Boko Tabing, ZPC East Siang, as chief guest.

Addressing the gathering, District Youth Officer Pawan Kumar Rav highlighted the importance of empowering women and motivating the youth to contribute towards building a progressive and inclusive society.

On the occasion, several athletic competitions were organized in different age categories to promote sportsmanship. Gomen Ratan emerged as the winner in the under-13 category, Jharna Magar secured first place in the 13-18 years category, and Sabi Darin won in the 18 years and above category.

The celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from young athletes and members of the community, making the event lively and inspiring. The programme concluded with appreciation for the participants and a message promoting women empowerment, equality and active participation of women in all spheres of society.

Meanwhile, Jawaharlal Nehru College (JNC), Pasighat marked the 115th International Women’s Day with a vibrant programme organized by the Women’s Cell in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) at its Upper Campus conference hall. Held under the theme ‘Give to Gain’, the event brought together educators, activists, and students to reflect on the importance of gender equality and the collective responsibility of empowering women.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Jaya Tasung Moyong, General Secretary WASE, highlighted the role of “unsung heroes” within the domestic sphere and dedicated the occasion to women who silently fight daily struggles within their homes. Stressing that strengthening domestic spaces is as crucial as women’s participation in public life, she described “giving” as creating opportunities for self-reliance so that empowered women can help others. She also called for awareness and action against social issues such as polygamy, materialistic engagement (Kepel) ceremonies, and the growing money culture in elections, which she said undermines citizens’ freedom of voice.

JNC Principal Dr Gindu Borang said the day serves both as a celebration of women’s achievements and a reminder of the long struggle for equality. He emphasized that educational institutions must remain strong pillars in promoting women’s empowerment through awareness and education.

Earlier, Vice Principal Dr Leki Sitang highlighted the importance of ensuring that women are aware of their rights and opportunities and encouraged them to lead with both strength and compassion.

Dr Kamal Kishore Mishra, former HoD Geography, presented a poem dedicated to “Nari,” celebrating the resilience and strength of women.

Reflecting on the event’s theme, IQAC Coordinator Dr D P Panda stated that when society invests in women, they create “extra value” that benefits the entire community.

A technical session, chaired by Dr K K Mishra, focused on practical challenges faced by women today. Tobom Nyori spoke on issues of accessibility and public safety despite women’s growing presence in professional fields. She advocated home-based socialization, greater involvement of men in gender equality efforts, and the need for a supportive “sisterhood” among women, emphasizing that women’s rights should be seen as a collaborative effort rather than a competition with men.

DOIMUKH: To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day themed ‘Give to Gain’, the Women’s Cell of Govt College Doimukh conducted an outreach program with the students of the Govt Secondary School Mani, Doimukh.

Speaking on the occasion, Nyari Riso, Assistant Professor of Economics, encouraged girl students to refrain from doing things that cause their stress and to avoid harming themselves physically and mentally. Instead, she urged them to believe in their own strength and decisions, which can lead to a better future. Embracing self-worth is women's greatest strength.

Dr Kime Mamung, Assistant Professor of English department, emphasized the importance of women's health and hygiene, urging students to follow basic cleanliness routines like washing their hands properly before eating and maintaining the cleanliness of their surroundings. She also advised students to maintain a regular sleep schedule and eat on time, as discipline is the key to success.