Neiphiu Rio announces INR 7 crore for ENWO Resource Centre in Longleng, with INR 3.5 crore released as the first instalment.
DIMAPUR — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Friday highlighted the need for greater participation of women in decision-making, education and economic development. He also announced that the state government had approved INR 7 crore for the ENWO Resource Centre in Longleng, with INR 3.5 crore released as the first instalment.
Addressing the inaugural session of ENWO’s 6th General Conference at Konyak Heritage, Mon, Rio said the resource centre should serve as a meaningful platform for the welfare and empowerment of women in the region.
He encouraged ENWO to make effective use of the facility to promote learning, skill development, capacity-building and awareness, particularly among women and young people. He said it should also provide space for meaningful meetings, constructive discussions, sound decision-making and the building of stronger relationships within communities.
Acknowledging ENWO’s contributions since its inception, Rio described it as a significant voice for the marginalised and a champion of women’s rights, dignity and empowerment, as well as the protection and welfare of children.
He also recognised the organisation’s supporting role in the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), particularly in the movement for the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).
Congratulating ENPO, the federating tribal organisations and legislators on the FNTA achievement, the Chief Minister said the development would usher Eastern Nagaland into a new era of development, inclusivity and greater opportunities.
On women's advancement in Nagaland, Rio highlighted the state's first-place ranking in Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality) in the NITI Aayog SDG India Index 2023-24. However, he said progress in gender equality must also translate into greater representation of women in political leadership.
Referring to women's participation in governance, he noted that S Phangnon Konyak became Nagaland's first woman Rajya Sabha MP, while Salhoutuonuo Kruse and Hekani Jakhalu became the state's first women MLAs.
He further stated that 102 of the 198 women candidates in the last Urban Local Body elections were elected, including eight from unreserved wards.
"If women actively participate in choosing their leaders, they must also be encouraged to become leaders and help shape the future of our society," Rio said, adding that greater representation would bring diverse perspectives, strengthen governance and contribute to more inclusive and responsive decision-making.
The Chief Minister also referred to the state's literacy progress, citing the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023-24, which reported a literacy rate of 95.7% among people aged seven and above in Nagaland. He called for continued efforts to ensure that every girl, particularly those in remote and disadvantaged communities, had access to quality education.
Referring to the 2026 HSLC examination, Rio said girls recorded a pass percentage of 72.72%, compared with 71.31% for boys, and secured 57 of the 80 positions in the Top 20 merit list.
He called for these achievements to be accompanied by opportunities for higher education, skill development, entrepreneurship and employment, stating that a girl's future should be determined by her talent, hard work and aspirations.
Earlier, the conference commenced with the ceremonial unfurling of the ENWO flag, followed by the rendition of the organisational anthem. An invocation prayer was offered by Rev. A. Peihwang Wangsa, Mission Secretary, KBBB.
Mon Deputy Commissioner Wennyei Konyak, in his address, emphasised the need to elevate women's status, enable them through opportunities and empower them to evolve alongside society. He underscored equal access to education, entrepreneurship, leadership and decision-making without discrimination.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated exhibition stalls showcasing indigenous products, creativity, entrepreneurial initiatives and the cultural heritage of the eight tribal communities.