International Women’s Day was celebrated across Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday with various programs highlighting women’s achievements, empowerment, and the need for gender equality. This year’s theme for the celebration was “Give to Gain.”
A major program was organized by the Women and Child Development (WCD) Department at DK Convention Hall in Itanagar. Addressing the gathering, Education Minister Passang Dorjee Sona stressed the importance of reducing social divisions and promoting gender equality in society. He emphasized the vision of building a holistic society based on equality across gender, caste, and communities.
Sona stated that real progress can only be achieved when individuals are willing to give support, knowledge, compassion, and opportunities to others. Referring to the words of the 14th Dalai Lama, he noted that women often display greater compassion and empathy. He also expressed satisfaction over the increasing representation of women in the legislative assembly.
Women and Child Development Minister Dasanglu Pul highlighted the vital role of tribal women in society, stating that they have long been the backbone of families and communities. She noted their significant contributions in agriculture, environmental protection, preservation of traditional knowledge, and cultural heritage.
MLA Tsering Lhamu also spoke at the event, highlighting government initiatives aimed at empowering girls, including free cervical cancer vaccination programs. She appreciated the growing role of self-help groups in strengthening livelihoods and community development.
Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women Chairperson Yalem Taga Burang encouraged women to recognize their identity and make greater use of government schemes and opportunities. She also expressed concern over social challenges such as domestic violence, polygamy, and drug abuse.
During the celebration, several women achievers and institutions from across the state were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in fields such as education, social service, sports, culture, and community leadership. Ten individuals and five institutions were honored for their work in empowering women and supporting vulnerable sections of society.
The event also featured cultural programs, including a skit based on the theme “Give to Gain,” a cycle rally, and the launch of a book titled Tere Mere Sapne, published by the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women in collaboration with the National Commission for Women.
International Women’s Day was also observed in several districts across the state, including Namsai, East Siang, Tawang, Lower Subansiri, Tirap, and Pasighat. Various awareness programs, workshops, medical camps, sports activities, and cleanliness drives were organized to mark the occasion.
Educational institutions such as Arunachal Pradesh University and Jawaharlal Nehru College organized seminars and self-defense workshops to promote women’s safety and empowerment.
Officials and speakers at the programs emphasized the importance of education, economic independence, and equal opportunities for women. They called for collective efforts from society to ensure the empowerment and well-being of women and girls across Arunachal Pradesh.
