Imphal: 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 Sensitisation” at the auditorium of Akashvani Imphal on Thursday.
Speaking at the programme, W. Phajatombi Devi, MCS, Member Secretary, MSCW & Additional Director (IPR), Manipur, stated that despite claims of equal rights, true gender equality has yet to be fully realised.
Observing that disparities between men and women persist in various spheres of life, she emphasised that men must recognise the roles, contributions, and responsibilities of women, and translate that awareness into action to achieve real equality.
She stressed the need for greater sensitisation and urged the staff of Akashvani Imphal to support efforts in promoting public awareness of 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 how female members of the family are treated, and added 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 the 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.
Nongthombam Roma, Programme Executive & Chairperson, Women Cell-Internal Committee, Akashvani Imphal, 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, adding 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 the grassroots level and urged all to empower themselves so they can, in turn, empower others.
She mentioned various issues affecting women and reiterated MSCW’s commitment to promoting their welfare and empowerment across the state. She appealed to the public to work together to support women’s rights for a more empowered society.
During the technical session, Lourembam Dayabati Devi, former member, MSCW, spoke on “Gender Equity Versus Gender Equality, Gender Role at Home & Workplaces,” while B. Supriya Devi, Advocate, gave insights on “Men as Allies: Engaging Men in Women’s 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 staff of Akashvani Imphal.