SHILLONG: The annual session of young Indians Meghalaya Chapter and Session on ‘Gender Equality’ was observed on Tuesday with a focus on the theme of International Women’s Day 2016 of ‘Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step it up for gender equality’.
Speaking on the theme, chief guest Theilin Phanbuh, Chairperson, Meghalaya State Commission for Women, said, “When we talk of gender equality we cannot deny the fact that women in our country have contributed a lot to social, cultural, economic and political achievements. The Government in India has set up the National Commission for Women and with the inclusion of more women in the Ministry and choosing a woman Speaker is a welcome step which is the right approach towards gender parity.”
She added that women should get equal participation in policy making, discussion, providing equal opportunities in holding high positions in various sectors etc., and for women policies to reflect unique needs of women, their views in government and community as well to impress the gender balance of leadership opportunities in public life.
Mayfereen Ryntathiang, president, Grassroots, said mere implementation of laws for women is not enough as more importantly they should be allowed to speak out.
“There are laws but we need to look at the reality and providing reservations for women is not enough, women needs to speak out as well as teaching men to respect women,” Ryntathiang said.
The programme also featured a book reading session of the book ‘My half of the sky’ which has 12 chapters featuring women of the North East penned by author, journalist and columnist Indrani Raimedhi.
“The common thread that binds all these women together is their never say die spirit and that they are never after fame or public adulation. They have a calling to help and serve people in need.
“This book is born out of the desire to spread news about the North Eastern region,” she added.
