Women’s Day greetings from across M’laya
Our Bureau
SHILLONG/DADENGGRE, March 8: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Sunday extended greetings on the occasion of International Women’s Day and highlighted the role of self-help groups and entrepreneurship in women’s empowerment in the state.
Sangma said women’s empowerment in Meghalaya means ensuring that women have the freedom to make their own choices, achieve financial independence and pursue their dreams with confidence.
“Wishing all the incredible women who believe, dream, break barriers and achieve so much more a very Happy International Women’s Day,” the chief minister said in a post on X. “Through our strong SHG movement, support for women entrepreneurs and farmer welfare programmes, we are witnessing the power of collective empowerment, truly reflecting this year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’,” he said.
Officials said Meghalaya currently has over 50,000 women-driven SHGs involving more than five lakh members, reflecting the expansion of community-led initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting financial inclusion.
The chief minister reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening opportunities for women across sectors in the state.
Underprivileged communities join in
To mark International Women’s Day, SPARK, a social organisation, organised a special programme for women from remote villages and underprivileged communities under the theme “Give to Gain.”
The event brought together women from various rural and slum areas who face significant social, economic and educational challenges. Through this initiative, SPARK aimed to provide these women with the knowledge and tools necessary to become self-reliant and confident in shaping their futures.
During the interactive sessions, president and founder of SPARK, Shima Modak, emphasised the importance of education and self-confidence. She explained that the theme “Give to Gain” reflects the idea that when society invests in women through support and opportunities, it gains a stronger and more progressive community.
The programme also provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and learn about their rights. Activities focused on awareness and encouragement, inspiring the women to recognise their potential.
Women achievers feted
Meghandini Mahila Samiti, in collaboration with the Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, the Directorate of Art & Culture, and YESS!! Meghalaya, celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 at the R.B. Anupchand Hindi Hr. Sec. School auditorium on Sunday.
Meghalaya State Women Commission Chairperson Iamon Syiem was the chief guest of the occasion.
A highlight of the programme was the presentation of the “Women Icon Award of Shillong City” to two prominent achievers — Balarina Syiem, District Sports Officer (DSO) of Nongstoin, and Riffiness Warjri, who became the youngest conqueror of Mount Everest in 2025.
The celebration featured a variety of cultural performances and indoor sports activities to mark the occasion.
Dadenggre celebrates International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day 2026, themed “Give to Gain,” was celebrated at the Dadenggre Civil Sub-Division yesterday. Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) Richa Kulkarni graced the occasion as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Kulkarni acknowledged the resilience and immense contributions of women to society. She noted that while women manage numerous responsibilities beyond household chores, their individual success remains a vital driver for societal progress. She also highlighted the importance of the student competitions organised for the event, stating they were designed to encourage participation and skill development for future careers.
Assistant Commissioner Solomon J Syiem remarked that the day serves as an occasion to respect women for their dedicated service. He cited historical trailblazers from the State to inspire the audience, mentioning Mavis Dunn Lyngdoh, who was elected to the Assam Legislative Assembly in 1937 and became the first female Cabinet Minister in 1939. He also pointed to Biana W Momin, a Garo actor who appeared in the Malayalam film Eko at age 70, as proof that age and geography are no barriers to success.
During the function, prizes were distributed to winners of drawing and essay writing competitions held for local students. Additionally, several employees of the Dadenggre Sub-Division were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their exceptional service.
The felicitated employees include: Paelish S Sangma (UDA, SDSEO), Sujata D Shira (Assistant Teacher), Lui Kerenina Ch Momin (Lady Supervisor, ICDS), Denilla B Marak (Sanitary Inspector), Chandrika M Marak, Onitha M Marak, Jherina A Sangma, Smerik A Sangma, Kadime D Sangma, Marthilina B Marak, and Tangkame M Marak (Staff Nurses, CHC Dadenggre).
Also honoured were Senilla B Marak and Presalline B Marak (ASHAs), Nilima Hajong (Grade-V, CHC), Marsillina Sangma (Local Dai), Sentseva Nokrik Ch Marak (UDA), Thirza M Sangma (OC Women Police, Phulbari), Sweet Leriya D Marak and Mandahakani Patwet (Women Police), Natasha D Marak (Assistant Engineer), and Derani K Sangma (JRDO).
Pancha Baida, CDPO, Dadenggre, also spoke at the event, which was organised by the Sub-Divisional Office. (With PTI inputs)
