Newmai News Network
Imphal | January 24
Manipur Governor, Dr Najma Heptulla today said that the State government of Manipur should consider a gender budget allocation specifically for women in the State. She was speaking as the chief guest at the National Girl Child Day 2020 held at City Convention Centre, Imphal on Friday.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Najma Heptulla highlighted that ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ is not just a slogan "but to commit ourselves to save and educate girl child so as to make a good citizen of this country". She added, "We need to counter the negative gender stereotype as it would hamper in harnessing the potential and capabilities of a girl child of the country".
Maintaining that girls can do anything in today’s world, the Governor urged: “Let us recommit to support every girl to develop her skills, enter the workforce on equal terms and reach her full potential.” The Governor also said, "We need to equip girls with transferable and lifelong skills such as critical thinking, creativity and digital awareness". The Governor then asked the government agencies, NGOs, civil society organisations to join hands in addressing the problems faced by the girl child in the society.
While delivering his Presidential address, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh maintained that there is a peaceful and cohesive environment in the last three years as the grievances and problems of the people are timely resolved. He also said that we need practical and pragmatic approaches to bring positive change in the State.
Mentioning the decreasing sex ratio scenario and female feticide in the State, the Chief Minister said that there is a need for a stringent legislation to prohibit such wrong doings in the State. He appealed the doctors, nurses and private clinics not to encourage and stop such malpractice instantly. He informed that the legislation would have the power to cancel and terminate the licenses of doctors, clinics and diagnostic centers for unethical medical practices. The government will consult with legal experts for the introduction of such legislation soon, he added.
Stating that women are in the forefront in various fields and sectors, the Chief Minister said that Manipur has topped in women ownership in MSME businesses in the country. India's 20 percent MSME businesses are owned by women while in Manipur women own 50 percent of MSME businesses, he added.
