International Women's Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, March 07 2012: Manipur joined the world in celebrating International Women's Day as a two-day celebration commenced from today at State Guest House.

Manipur Governor Gurbachan Jagat's better-half Kiran Jagat graced the celebration being organised by Manipur State Commission for Women as the chief guest and the Commission Chairperson Dr L Ibetombi Devi as functional president.

In her address to the gathering, the Lady Governor highlighted that the event is held every year in recognition of women's achievements regardless of divisions and status be it national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political.

Urging all concerned to strive for exploring and tapping the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women, Kiran Jagat also acknowledged the awareness programmes initiated by the Manipur State Commission for Women at various remote villages of Manipur for the welfare of the women community and protection of women from domestic violence.

She, however, lamented that inspite of strides made by women in diverse fields and professions, women continue to be subjected tovarious forms of atrocities such as rape and trafficking of the girl child.

Kiran Jagat also affirmed that the women will become empowered only whey they are strong from within and stand not just for their rights but the rights of the children, husbands, home, society and country.

elaborating on the genesis of the International Women's Day while presenting the key-note address, Dr Ibetombi said movement launched by women garment workers in New York city on this day in 1857 demanding equal wage and working hours like their male counterparts transformed the movement to a global event for celebration.

She informed that the women's movement was due to cumulative angst for over 100 years against inequality between the male and female workers.

The Commission chairperson strongly advocated concerted movement by the women to protect their own rights and fight injustice.

Manipur State Social Welfare Board Chairperson RK Noyonsana Devi and (Retd) District & Sessions Judge, Manipur Th Surbala Devi were the guests of honour of the commemorative event's first day.

In connection with the celebration, people's representatives elected to the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly and various organisations conveyed greetings to the people of Manipur, particularly the women.

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