The International Women’s Day 2025, under the theme “Accelerate Action,” was celebrated on 8th March 2025 at Mawlai Presbyterian School Iewrynghep. The event was held in collaboration with the Seng Kynthei of Mawlai Pyllun, which includes the 17 DorbarShnongs under Mawlai. It saw enthusiastic participation from various women’s organizations from within the district and surrounding areas, including NGOs from Sohra, Tyrna, Madan, Riat Laban, the Lympung ki Seng Kynthei, and other voluntary organizations working for the welfare of women.
The event began with an opening speech by Dr.Sukjai Swer, who served as the host for the program. Dr.Swer emphasized the importance of recognizing the collective efforts of women in advancing gender equality. Reflecting the theme “Accelerate Action,” the focus was placed on the urgent need to promote gender equality through collective action, starting within our own homes, where women are entitled to live with dignity and freedom.
Smt. E. Kharchandy, District Social Welfare Officer for East District, in her speech, highlighted the provisions in the Constitution of India, which enshrine equal rights for women through Articles 14-18 and Article 21.Various Laws and Acts like the Domestic Violence Act 2005 and the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act 2013 to protect and prevent atrocities against women has been ensured to safeguard the rights and freedom of women, She also emphasized the relevance of the Sustainable Development Goals, which stress the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women in both the organized and unorganized sectors.
Kong Maimai Basaiawmoit, President of the Seng Kynthei Mawlai Pyllun, spoke about the challenges faced by women who suffer in silence and do not report their issues. She urged women to come forward and seek justice, ensuring that those responsible for wrongdoing are held accountable.
The students of Seven Hut Mawlai Umthlong presented a skit based on the theme Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, highlighting the importance of educating and empowering girls. A group of girls from the Mawlai Nonglum Dance Academy performed a dance with a strong message against substance abuse.
The Centre Manager of the One Stop Centre gave a brief presentation on the services provided by the Centre. She explained how women facing discrimination can reach out to the Protection Officer to file complaints and seek justice.
Shri.Eddieson Kharumnuid, Mawlai MDC, was a special guest at the event. He spoke about the critical role women play in building both homes and nations. He shared a powerful message, quoting a proverb: “A wise woman builds a home; she also builds a nation.” He commended the women of the Khasi District Council for their wise words and contributions to society. Shri. Kharumnuid also praised the Khasi matrilineal system, which, unlike many parts of the country, maintains a relatively equal status between men and women.
The Chief Guest, Shri. Brightstarwell Marbaniang, Mawlai MLA, addressed the gathering by stressing that today was a reminder of the special role women play in society. He reiterated the theme “Accelerate Action,” emphasizing that it is not enough to merely talk about equality—action must be taken swiftly to achieve equal rights and opportunities for both men and women. Shri Marbaniang praised the Khasi social system, noting that both men and women share equal responsibilities in the community, a vision put in place by the foresighted ancestors. He narrates Genesis 2 verses 21-22 where Eve is created from Adam’s Rib, signifying close relation between humanity and a shared origin rather than dominance or subservience.
He also shared a quote by Brigham Young: “Educate a woman, educate a generation,” underscoring the broader impact that educating and empowering woman has on families and communities. To illustrate the potential of women, he shared an inspiring story about Kong Mavis Dunn, the first Khasi woman to become a cabinet minister in India. After her retirement, she toured the West, delivering lectures in the United States, inspiring generations of women to break barriers and make their mark in society.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Smt. Ibahunlin Kharlukhi, Secretary of the Seng Kynthei Mawlai Pyllun, expressing gratitude to all the participants, speakers, and organizers for making the celebration a success.
This event marked an important step in advancing the cause of gender equality, and it serves as a reminder of the power and potential of women in shaping the future.