Imphal: Bolstering efforts to promote a more equitable society, the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW), in association with Akashvani Imphal organised a one-day awareness programme on “Gender Sensitization” today at the auditorium of Akashvani Imphal.
Speaking at the programme,W. Phajatombi Devi, MCS, Member Secretary, MSCW & Additional Director (IPR), Manipur, stated that despite claims of equal rights for men and women, true gender equality has yet to be fully realised. Observing that disparities between men and women continue to persist in various spheres of life, she emphasised that it is essential for men to recognise the roles, contributions and responsibilities of women and translate that awareness into action to achieve real equality. She stressed the need for greater sensitization and further urged the staff of Akashvani Imphal to support efforts in promoting public awareness on gender equality.
Taking part in the event, Konjengbam Sonikumar Singh, Assistant Director (News) Regional News Unit, Akashvani Imphal, said gender equality must begin at home, reflected in the way female members of the family are treated and that such values should extend to the workplace and society at large. He called for increased awareness among men to help ensure gender equality. He also noted that the condition of transgender community in Manipur is relatively better compared to other states, in terms of treatment, reduced discrimination and recognition of rights. He appreciated MSCW’s efforts in organising such programmes regularly to keep the public informed and aware of gender equality.
While, Nongthombam Roma, Programme Executive & Chairperson, Women Cell-Internal Committee, Akashvani Imphal, in her address, echoed K. Sonikumar’s call that gender equality must begin at home. She expressed concern that women in leadership positions are often not given due recognition. She asserted the need for women to be fully informed of their rightful entitlements and encouraged them to exercise their rights. She also highlighted the vital role of men in supporting and empowering women and added that gender equality can only be achieved through collective efforts.
Speaking on the sidelines, Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson, MSCW, maintained that empowerment must begin at grassroots level, and urged all to empower themselves so they can, in turn, empower others. She further mentioned various issues affecting women and reiterated MSCW’s commitment to promoting their welfare and empowerment across the state. She appealed to the people to work together to support women’s rights for an empowered society.
During the programme’s technical session, Lourembam Dayabati Devi, former member, MSCW spoke on “Gender Equity Versus Gender Equality, Gender Role at Home & Work Places”, while B. Supriya Devi, Advocate gave insights on “Men as Allies Engaging Men in Women Empowerment”. The event was attended by SK Sophia Moyon, Member, MSCW; Thokchom Jogendrajit, Assistant Director (News), Regional News Unit, Akashvani Imphal; T. Chuongsin Koireng, Ex-member, MSCW and many staff of Akashvani Imphal.
