Imphal, March 08: The International Women's Day was observed today at Congress Bhavan here under the aegis of the Manipur Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee.

The observation was opened with the presentation of keynote address by president of the Mahila Congress M Priyomala.

Addressing the gathering, MPCC president Gaikhangam highlighted the crucial role and responsibility of women towards bringing peace and progress in a society.

He lamented that even as there has demands to empower women and allow them participation in the decision making process, women often do not favour women candidates in Assembly or Parliamentary elections.

He also stressed on the importance of a concerted effort both by men and women towards emancipation of women.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, six women vendors were also felicitated.

The women vendors are Yambem Ibeni, Tourangbam Jamini, Konjengbam Maimu of Purana Bazar, Samurailakpam Mani, Ngangbam Ibecha and Naoroijam Indumati of Lakshmi Bazar.

Later, Prof Ksh Bimola presented a paper on "Role of Women in Restoring Peace in Manipur" followed by another paper by president of Kuki Women Union Manipur Rose Mangshi Haokip on "Women Empowerment in Manipur".

The Tamenglong District Mahila Congress Committee also observed the International Women's Day at Longmai Bazar, Noney.

During the observance attended by more than 500 women from Tamenglong district, many resource persons spoke on various topics like women empowerment and the role of women in society, informed a release.

With Thounaojam Iboyaima of Irabot Foundation Manipur, L Memchoubi of the Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur and N Chaobi of AMAWOVA as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively, AMAWOVA observed International Women's Day at MDU Hall, Yaiskul.

The All Manipur Women's Voluntary Association (AMAWOVA) Jiri Branch observed International Women's Day at Jiri town hall today.

The International Women's Day at DM College of Science was organised by the AMKIL.

Here Dr Arambam Lokendro spoke as a resource person.

The observance was attended by social activist Maloti, Sakhi Leima of AMKIL and Janaki of MEKHOL.

The International Women's Day was also observed at Kumbi Laishang Leikai under the aegis of the Green Foundation, Kumbi branch with president of the All Manipur Nupi Marup, Kumbi Local Council Khaidem Leima as chief guest.

Meanwhile, on the occasion of the International Women's Day, the All Manipur Tammi Chingmi Apunba Lup and the All Manipur Women's Social Reformation and Development Samaj have expressed solidarity to the relentless struggle of Irom Chanu against AFSPA by presenting books and other items.

Under the theme, "Shaping Progress", the Women Forum, Manipur Network of Positive People in collaboration with Manipur State AIDS Control Society observed International Women's Day at the former's conference hall.

The All Manipur Nupi Marup, Thoubal District Mahila Congress Committee and the BJP Manipur Pradesh also observed International Women's Day at different places today.

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