Kohima, April 17: A state-level seminar on “Women in Contemporary Naga Society” was held at the SIRD Auditorium in Kohima on Friday, bringing together policymakers, scholars and civil society members to discuss the evolving role of women in Naga society. The event was organised by the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) with support from the National Commission for Women (NCW).
 |
| Participants pose for a group photo during the State-Level Seminar on “Women in Contemporary Naga Society” held at SIRD Auditorium, Kohima, organised by the Nagaland State Commission for Women.(DIPR Nagaland) |
MLA Achumbemo Kikon, who attended the programme as special guest, highlighted the transformation in societal perceptions of women, stating that women are no longer seen as a source of problems but as a source of strength and progress. He noted that although Naga society historically evolved from a patriarchal system, women today are increasingly asserting their rights and contributing to decision-making processes.
Kikon pointed out that 102 women candidates were elected in the 2024 Urban Local Body (ULB) elections, describing it as a major step towards inclusive governance and a reflection of changing social attitudes. He also cited Nagaland’s female literacy rate of 76.11 per cent as a positive indicator of progress. Encouraging women to continue striving for equal opportunities, he urged them to support one another and actively participate in leadership roles.
ALSO READ: Nagaland Governor Attends Academic Closing Day at St. Xavier College, Jalukie
Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare Limawabang Jamir, IAS, in his remarks said women are emerging as important agents of change in contemporary Naga society. While acknowledging the traditionally patriarchal structure of the society, he highlighted the growing presence of women in education, business, governance and social activism, noting that education remains a key driver of empowerment.
Jamir also highlighted recent milestones such as S. Phangnon Konyak becoming the first woman from Nagaland elected to the Rajya Sabha, and Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Hekani Jakhalu Kense making history in the State Assembly. He added that women now hold more than 37 per cent of seats in municipal bodies, demonstrating increasing participation in grassroots governance.
Delivering the keynote address, NSCW Chairperson W. Nginyeih Konyak described the seminar as timely and significant, noting that Naga society is undergoing a period of transformation. She emphasised that although women have long played a vital role in families and communities, challenges remain in areas such as representation, decision-making and access to opportunities.
The seminar also featured a technical session moderated by Gracy Aye, State Mission Coordinator of Mission Shakti, where experts discussed issues related to awareness, cultural sensitivity and the socio-cultural challenges faced by women in the state. Speakers included Dr. Theyiesinuo Keditsu of Kohima College, Rev. Dr. Ellen Konyak Jamir of Oriental Theological Seminary, and Dr. A. Wati Walling of the National Institute of Technology.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Akokla Longchar, member of NSCW, with participants expressing hope that the deliberations would contribute to meaningful policy discussions and stronger efforts towards women’s empowerment in Nagaland.
