PNNM observes 39th Raising Day, calls for women's empowerment
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, August 09 2026: The Poumai Naga Naotumai Me (PNNM), also known as the Poumai Naga Women's Union, observed its 39th Raising Day at its office building at Poulea (Council) village in Senapati district headquarters on Sunday under the theme "Empowering women, building the future".

A Adaha Kayisii, wife of late former Minister N Kayisii, attended the programme as chief host, while RT Freeson Dovei, CAO, Shepoumaramth Region, NSCN/GPRN, attended as special guest.

Poumai Naga Union (PNU) president RB Pani and Poumai Naga Tsiidoumai Me (PNTM) president J Dalounii Angam were special invitees, while Senapati District Women's Association president P Delilah Pao was the main speaker.

In her address, A Adaha Kayisii extended greetings to the women's organisation on its 39th Raising Day and expressed gratitude to the organisers for inviting her to the programme.

She said attending the event was a significant moment for her family following the demise of the former Minister and expressed hope that the organisation would continue to prosper.

PNU president RB Pani said the theme of the celebration was significant, observing that an empowered PNNM and PNTM would strengthen the PNU as the two organisations constitute important wings of the community's apex body.

He appreciated the PNNM executives for their tireless service to the people and encouraged them not to be discouraged by criticism or opposition.

RT Freeson Dovei recalled that the PNNM was established on August 9, 1987, following the Oinam Hill incident of July 9 that year and the ensuing need for a women's organisation in the region.

Describing the services rendered by the women's body as valuable and significant for humanity, he urged its members to continue working for the welfare of the people and maintain the dignity and status of women.

Speaking on the occasion, SDWA president P Delilah Pao recalled the circumstances surrounding the formation of the women's organisation following the Oinam incident of 1987.She said the incident highlighted the need for an organisation dedicated to protecting human life and dignity, safeguarding rights, addressing grievances and seeking justice for victims.

She recalled that an emergency meeting was held on August 9, 1987, at Poumai Colony, Imphal, following deliberations and encouragement from well-wishers, leading to the formation of the Poumai Women Organisation, with V Martha and late V Esther elected as president and secretary respectively.

Pao said the women's organisation has stood for peace and restoration of justice and noted that women had traditionally played the role of peacemakers.

Drawing inspiration from their predecessors, she said the organisation would continue to work towards peace and justice and seek justice for victims of Operation Bluebird.

The programme later featured a debate on the theme "Empowering women, building the future".

Executives of the PNU and PNTM spoke as the movers, while PNNM executives took the opposing side.

The movers emerged victorious in the debate.

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