By Raja Rehber Jamal
Bhaderwah, Mar 07:Focusing on recognizing women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements, Social Welfare Department in collaboration with District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Bhaderwah while recognizing the contributions of women organised a pre celebration of International Women’s Day (IWD) in Bhaderwah on Thursday.
The event held in Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Bhaderwah with the theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress’ aimed at tackling economic disempowerment was organised under the supervision of Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) Bhaderwah Subash Kotwal. On the occasion DDC Councillor West Yudhvir Thakur was the chief guest, while Principal Government Higher Secondary School Boys Nazir Ahmed and CDPO Bhaderwah Farhat Shamim Khan were the guest of honours. Advocate Mohd Majid Malik was the special invitee for the programme. While Educationist Arif Rana Bhadarwahi conducted the proceedings of the event.
A large number of womenfolk including Anganwadi workers, ASHA Workers, students, PLVs and others participated in the celebration.
Though this programme, the importance of diversity and empowerment in all aspects of society was emphasized and the campaign theme underscores the crucial role of inclusion in achieving gender equality as well.
On the occasion some students and teachers spoke on the topic of International Women's Day.
Advocate Mohd Majid Malik retainer lawyer of DLSA threw light on the role of women in the society and also highlighted the importance of international women's day. He also aware participants about different laws especially for womenfolk provided by different sections of IPC to protect the rights of women. While highlighting the significant role played by women in social, economic, political, educational and judicial fronts, DDC councilor Bhaderwah-West Yudhvir Thakur said that to usher on a new era of social development granting of equal rights and equal decision-making power to women is the only way forward.
TSWO Bhaderwah Subash Kotwal said that the main objective of organizing this event is to make women in general aware of their rights beside honor them.
He said that the purpose of celebrating Women’s Day is to raise awareness about the status and dignity of women among the students.
Farhat Shamim Khan CDPO Bhaderwah also spoke on the occasion and urged upon women folk to come forward for their rights.
She also urged upon parents to provide better education to their girl child so that she can get a better life. “This day should not be confined to celebration only but the implementation of in letter and spirit is needed,” Farhat added.
Some meritorious students were also presented prizes on the occasion. 
