ANMA Integrated Development Association (AIDA), Don Bosco, Dimapur, in collaboration with SBI Foundation Mumbai under its program "SBI Gram Saksham," marked the International Women’s Day with fervor and dedication in Virazouma village, Chumoukedima. The event, aligned with this year’s theme "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," highlighted the organization's commitment to empowering women through sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The program, initiated on 1st October 2023, aims to create alternative livelihood opportunities for women in 10 selected rural villages under Chumoukedima district through sustainable pig rearing practices for 150 women. Recognizing the significance of pig rearing as a supplementary income-generating activity, This initiative targets unemployed women and housewives, offering them a pathway to economic empowerment.
Dr. Limatula Aier, Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur was the Special Guest. She said that today, she has witnessed more women as bread earners of the family and even as a family person they have been managing their professional life exceptionally well. “I see that the talents of the women are coming in the forefront and I would like to take this opportunity to challenge every women present here to come forward with bravery, take the lead, adopt a help seeking behavior and excel in your endeavors” she added. She urged all the participants to register under CMHIS scheme and avail its benefits.
Smt. Atula Jamir, Branch Manager, SBI, Rangapahar Branch, Dimapur, was the Guest of Honour for the event. She observed that majority of the employees in her office are women, setting examples in the society, for an era of empowered women. She also encouraged the women beneficiaries to take the challenge in coming forward and adopt a help seeking behavior wherever they go. In addition, she gave insights into 3 loan schemes available to these women, namely Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) loan, and Self Help Group (SHG) loans and Education Loan. Rev. Fr. Nebu Mathew SDB, Rector Don Bosco, Dimapur extended a warm welcome to everyone on behalf of the Executive Director of AIDA. In his message he invited everyone to celebrate the incredible progress women have made. They are no longer confined to traditional roles but are leading in every sphere of life. Today women are breaking barriers and making a difference every day he added.
Dr. Vekuto Sema, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, Chumoukedima, addressed the beneficiaries on the concept of pig breeding, enlightening them about sustainable practices to ensure the success of their endeavors. The event also witnessed enthusiastic participation from Virazouma village Council Members, Women Presidents, and 150 piggery beneficiaries from 10 selected villages. The vibrant cultural performances by beneficiaries from Vidima, Murise, and Bade villages, showcasing traditional folk dances and songs, added color to the celebration.
As part of the initiative, the inauguration of 18 pig sheds and the distribution of 36 piglets to 18 beneficiaries were conducted, symbolizing the commencement of a new chapter in the lives of these women. This celebration not only signifies economic empowerment but also embodies the spirit of progress and development in the lives of women and their communities. By aligning with the theme of International Women’s Day 2024, "Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress," AIDA, Don Bosco, Dimapur, reaffirms its commitment to fostering positive change and sustainable development through women's empowerment initiatives.
