Manipur marks International Women's Day with calls for equality, justice & unity
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 08 2026:
International Women's Day was celebrated widely across the State today to honour women's achievements and advocate for gender equality.
WAD
Women Action for Development (WAD) also observed International Women's Day at Kanglei Training Hall, Imphal East district today.
The programme, held under the international theme "Give to Gain", brought together a diverse group of women, including widows, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and survivors and victims of conflict and all forms of violence.
At the event, Natacha Urikhinbam, a researcher, highlighted the historical significance of International Women's Day, which led to interactive discussions on women's roles and challenges in Manipur.
Participants shared powerful personal stories of struggle and courage, from overcoming loss and displacement to achieving professional success within their communities.
The discussions underscored the need for education, unity, and sociopolitical participation to advance women's empowerment.
Cultural performances, including song and dance, added vibrancy to the celebration.
WAD also presented gifts to participants and their children as tokens of appreciation and solidarity.
The programme concluded with a collective singing of the State song "Sanaleibak Manipur" and a renewed commitment to women's development, with WAD reaffirming that empowering women is essential for building a just and progressive society.
AMNM/WWF
The All Manipur Nupi Marup (AMNM) and Working Women Forum (WWF), Manipur jointly observed International Women's Day at Irawat Bhawan, Imphal, focusing on "Women unite against violence for a just world" .
The event was graced by dignitaries, including AMNM patron member M Kadambini.
president S Sorojini, and WWF Manipur president Th Bedamani.
Delivering the keynote address, Lairenjam Sumatibala, vice president of AMNM, stated that despite widespread calls for gender equality, incidents of violence and discrimination against women continue unabated.
She also expressed dissatisfaction with the current justice delivery system concerning crimes against women.
Sumatibala urged women to collectively pressure the Government to ensure law and order, protect women, punish perpetrators, and guarantee their rights.
Lions Club
The Lions Club of Imphal Leimarol, in collaboration with the All India Women's Voluntary Services (AIWVS), Manipur Branch, observed International Women's Day today at the Conference Hall of the Working Women Hostel in Paona Bazar, Imphal.
The event focused on the United Nations' 2026 theme: "Rights.
Justice.
Action.
For ALL Women and Girls".
The observation emphasized the critical need for legal protections, equal access to justice, and tangible policy changes to improve the lives of women globally.
The event featured several esteemed speakers and resource persons, including Dr Mamta Lukram, Assistant Professor at Naorem Birahari College, and Dr T Bilashini of the City Hospitals & Research Centre.
They shared their insights and expertise on the various challenges and opportunities facing women in today's society.
CRPF
The 143 Battalion CRPF marked International Women's Day with a programme highlighting women's empowerment and their contributions to society.
Commandant Ravinder Sharma led the event, which featured talks by Dr Saikat Biswas and Dr Shivani Sharma, emphasizing gender equality and the theme "Give To Gain" .
The CRPF also organised a health awareness programme and blood donation camp in collaboration with RIMS Hospital, Imphal.
Medical specialists shared insights on gynaecological and dermatological issues, and 27 personnel donated blood.
Similarly, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), Manipur State Unit also celebrated International Women's Day at the party office in Keishampat today.
The celebration was graced by dignitaries, including LJP (Ram Vilas) national general secretary Wangkheimayum Shreeman, Manipur state president Khoirom Deepu and other members of the party.
Women members were honoured with simple gifts at the event, recognising their pivotal role in shaping Manipuri society and earning the community's respect.




