Wokha, April 25 (DIPR): Chief Secretary of Nagaland, Banuo Z. Jamir today called upon the Lotha women for participation in all spheres, stating that countries with gender equality are more developed. Speaking on the second day of the 6th general conference of the Kyong Eloe Hoho (KEH) as chief guest, Banuo asserted, “Equality for women means progress for all.”
The Chief Secretary while highlighting the many changes of the 21st century observed that in order to bring changes in the traditional Naga society, women have bigger responsibilities and still have a long way to go. “The power of change is with us because we take care to educate the children at the most crucial change.”
Pointing out the literacy rate gap between male and female (5.95 percent), Banuo expressed that it shows a positive trend while explaining that in developed advanced countries, there exist no gap between male and female and encouraged the gathering to achieve 100% literacy rate.
Stressing on language as an important factor in development of personal identity, Banuo Z. Jamir impressed upon the women folk to teach the mother tongue to their children. Further, the chief guest observed that our culture/language is of utmost importance for continuation of our history while reminding that our society does not have a written history.
Meanwhile, stating that the concept of house wife needs a change in the mentality of Naga society, Banuo described a women as a specialist in management where she acts as a financial manager, planner, food and nutrition specialist, accountant, doctor, cleaner, cashier, peace maker, mediator, negotiator etc. “The value of a house wife is very expensive and no family could afford a housewife but women do it naturally without payment,” she said. Banuo exhorted the gathering to promote the value of housewife and expressed that it should start from women themselves. She also expressed regret that women very often are critical amongst themselves and encouraged them to appreciate one another if they want women representative. “Concentrate on appreciation rather than being critical, to bring about change,” she added.
The chief secretary lauded the KEH for recognising women achievers in varied fields during the conference and for valuing the worth of women and for having sense of appreciation.
SDO (C) Wokha, Mhomo Tungoe, who also exhorted the women gathering, observed that women play a very crucial role for emergence of any good and healthy society. “To be loved and appreciated by the society, one needs to be honest, responsible and hardworking,” he maintained.
During the programme, KEH felicitated special awardees including Yanpvuo Tungoe, Chanbeni Kikon, Lolano Khuvung (APRO) IPR for being awarded Governor Gold Medal for distinguished service in her field of duty, and Y. Renchano Lotha (Female Health Worker), recipient of Governor Gold Medal.
Representatives from all the Eloe Hoho units, elders, and well wishers attended the general conference held under the theme “Women in a Changing Cultural Scenario” on April 24 and 25 at Don Bosco Youth Center, Wokha.
