CHANDEL, July 5: The Deputy Commissioner of Chandel Robert Singh Khetrimayum has called on the members of the Naga Women Union Chandel (NWUC) to collaborate with district administration to ensure rapid development of their respective communities.
He was speaking at the 3rd foundation day of the NWUC held at the head office of the Chandel Naga People`™s Organization (CNPO), which was attended by members of NWUC and various leaders including CNPO president Ws Kanral Anal.
Robert Singh remarked that since NWUC is an embodiment of motherhood, they needed to play crucial roles in decision-making at the local level to promote the growth and development of women, children and vulnerable groups in the communities. They could develop relevant programmes and project to meet the needs and aspiration of the people.
Robert explained that for development to be made more relevant to the people the grass roots approach should be included in the planning and implementation processes so that they could make the necessary input.
He urged the participants to educate people in their socio-economic and political rights and take up innovative ideas and added that they (NWUC) could contribute improved suggestions to the district administration.
Working together with the local government administrators would not only ensure collective decision-making but also ensure probity and accountability.
Advisor of Indigenous Forum of North East India (IFNEI), Dr Gina Shangkham in her solidarity speech delivered on the occasion asserted that NWUC which was formed to uphold the rights and stand for the dignity of women should continue to work as a peace building agent.
She said that `Peace for a Naga Women `is living a respectful and understanding life`™ while adding that the Naga Women Union which was formed with the objective of standing for the rights of women since 1994, had initiated peace building project with different communities in the state.
She further said that Naga Women Union is renowned for championing women`™s rights and asked members to rally on this good image to sensitize women about their rights.
President of the Naga Women Union Chandel LH Bliss, in her welcome speech thanked all participants for making the programme a grand success.