DIMAPUR — Hope Channel, in collaboration with the Nagaland State Cooperative Bank (NStCB) and Noklak Town Baptist Church (NTBC), on Tuesday observed ‘International Widow’s Day 2024’ in Noklak town.
A DIPR report stated that the principal of Integrated Extension Training Institute (IETC) and director of State Agricultural Management And Extension Training Institute (SAMETI), Dr. Watila Jamir, attended the programme as the guest of honour and EAC of Noklak, Kathyinla, as the special guest.
Speaking at the programme, Dr. Jamir mentioned that, in traditional societies, women found themselves left in poverty when their husband dies. She added that many women found themselves denied of inheritance and rights, evicted from their rights and abused.
On the occasion, she called upon the gathering to create awareness on the problem of widows, their economic opportunities, health care and legal rights. She also urged to strive to free them from social stigma and discrimination in the society.
Dr. Jamir further sought commitment to develop resources and policies to empower widow by enabling them create a life for themselves and their children following the death of their husband and ending a cycle of poverty.
Meanwhile, Kathyinla mentioned that International Widows’ Day was launched by the United Nations in 2010 to raise awareness on the violation of human rights that widows suffer in many countries following the death of their spouse. Referring to UN data, she stated that there are more than 258 million widows around the world.
Besides, she stated that armed conflict, displacement and the COVID-19 pandemic have left tens of thousands of women newly widowed.
On behalf of the district administration, she expressed her sincere appreciation to Hope Channel for organising International Widows Day 2024 in Noklak. She further assured to render all possible assistance from the district administration in the days to come.
Earlier, a special prayer for single mothers was led by A Penglang, pastor of Noklak Town Baptish Church. The programme was chaired by Thongkoi LS and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by director Hope Channel, Tiakala Amri.