IWD-2025: Resilience of Manipuri women hailed
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, March 07 2025: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Manipur Regional Office, celebrated International Women's Day 2025 on Friday at Hotel Imolesh, Jail Road, Imphal.

The event, themed "March Forward: From Promises to Progress", highlighted the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women across diverse sectors in Manipur.

Partha Mandal, general manager NABARD, delivered the welcome address, recognising Manipur's longstanding tradition of women-led movements, from the historic Nupi Lal to the Meira Paibis' advocacy for justice.

He lauded the exemplary role of Manipuri women in sports, entrepreneurship, and grassroots activism, underscoring their deep-rooted empowerment within the state's cultural framework.

Mandal also elaborated on NABARD's pivotal role in fostering financial inclusion and economic independence through SelfHelp Groups (SHGs), which have evolved into the world's largest microfinance movement.

He highlighted various NABARD-led initiatives supporting women in agriculture, handicrafts, weaving, and food processing, along with skill development programmes in weaving, organic farming, mushroom cultivation, and poultry farming, all of which contribute significantly to Manipur's rural economy.

N Bandana Devi, state mission director MSRLM, commended the resilience of Manipuri women, particularly in the face of challenges since May 3, 2023.She emphasised the crucial role of SHGs and local women in providing support to individuals in relief camps and vulnerable communities.

She shared insights from a recent meeting with Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) officials in Delhi, where Manipur's accomplishments were acknowledged despite prevailing hardships.

Expressing gratitude to NABARD, MSCB, RBI, and other stakeholders for their support, she noted that over two lakh women are actively engaged in SHGs under MSRLM and NABARD, reinforcing the notion that women's empowerment extends benefits to entire families.

She also shared the success story of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, illustrating how perseverance and opportunity can transform lives.

Valentina Arambam, director Education (U), emphasised the indispensable role of women in balancing work and familial responsibilities.

She highlighted that women undertake duties such as raising children, managing households, and ensuring family well-being out of dedication and love rather than obligation.

She further stressed that child-rearing extends beyond academics to shaping responsible individuals who contribute positively to society.

Expressing deep appreciation for the commitment of women, she extended her gratitude to all those striving for progress.

Bidyarani Ayekpam, managing director MStCB, acknowledged the esteemed position women have historically held in Manipur, from the time of the freedom struggle to the present.

She noted the significant contributions of numerous women, including the "Ima" and "Ine", in shaping society and supporting families.

She remarked that the birth of a girl child in Manipur is celebrated as much as that of a boy, signifying the progressive outlook of the state, which contrasts with societal norms prevalent in other parts of the country.

Dr Ch Basudha Devi, principal scientist Fisheries ICAR, spoke on ICAR's contributions to fisheries research in Manipur, highlighted the development of short duration aquaculture technology, which has significantly benefitted farmers in the valley and led to success in crop competitions organised by the Fishery Department, and also mentioned various training programmes for women in fisheries, agriculture, and food processing, conducted in collaboration with various government departments.

Dr Rameshwari, assistant professor Zoology Department, Manipur University, underscored the importance of leadership, decision-making, education, and bridging the gender gap in technology and sustainability.

She asserted that women have historically played a vital role as caretakers of the planet and should be duly recognised for their contributions.

Citing the achievements of renowned scientists such as Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace, Jane Goodall, and Rosalind Franklin, she highlighted the indispensable role of women in scientific advancements and innovation.

As part of the event, an exhibition featuring locally crafted products by entrepreneurs, SHGs, and farmers' associations was organised.

Additionally, several successful entrepreneurs and bank branch managers were honoured for their achievements.

Some entrepreneurs and notable figures also shared their experiences and success stories.

The celebration concluded with a cultural performance by the Eastern Arts & Culture Foundation, Manipur.

Dignitaries present at the event included Abhay Kumar, chairman Manipur Rural Bank, Bendang Aier, deputy general manager, as well as numerous entrepreneurs, bank branch managers, and other officials.

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