North East Network (NEN) is proud to mark its 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades of tireless efforts towards empowering women and promoting gender equality in the North East region of India. In Meghalaya, this milestone celebration coincided with International Women’s Day 2025. The celebrations, on 10th March, 2025, brought together around 126 participants including NEN staff, women leaders, youth, weavers, farmers and representatives from government and non-government organisations, all united in their shared vision for a just and equitable world.
Themed “Action. Equality. Justice,” the celebrations served as a powerful affirmation of women’s voices, struggles, and triumphs. The programme began with a welcome address by Iaimanda A Ryngksai, State Coordinator of NEN Meghalaya, followed by a reflection on the three decade long journey of NEN by Anurita P. Hazarika, Executive Director of NEN. Special remarks were shared by well-wishers and partners of NEN, including Darilyn Syiem, former NEN member; Banteilang Kharjana, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) of South West Khasi Hills District (SWKHD); Dr. Sumita Kharmawphlang, Civil Hospital Nongpoh; Iamonlang Syiem, Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Commission for Women; and Gina Phanbuh, General Body Member of NEN.
One of the highlights of the programme was the launch of the booklet Her-Story: Survivor’s Story of Change, a tribute to the resilience of women survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Testimonies from community mobilisers, women farmers, weavers, and survivors of domestic violence illustrated how NEN’s interventions have fostered leadership and strengthened the fight against gender inequalities. Lugrecia Marwein, Community Mobiliser of NEN, and Kyntiewmolin Nonglang, a woman peer leader trained by NEN and serving as Secretary of the Executive Committee of the Dorbar Shnong of Mawlangsu, West Khasi Hills district, shared their powerful testimonies during the programme. The celebration also included cultural performances from women peer leaders, youth, women farmers, and survivors of GBV from the districts of East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, and Eastern West Khasi Hills. Dance, drama, plays, musical performances, and recitations echoed the lived experiences of women and their ongoing fight for justice.
ASP of SWKHD and representatives from One Stop Centres (OSC), Manbha Foundation, Grassroots, NeSFAS, Faith Foundation, Meghalaya State Commission for Women, and the District Hub for Empowerment of Women, enthusiastically took part in the celebrations, reflecting the strong partnerships NEN has cultivated over the years.
NEN has traversed a journey marked by both milestones and challenges. From its humble beginnings, the journey began like a small seed planted in fertile soil. The dedication of its founding members has nurtured its growth, with its roots deepening and its branches spreading far and wide. This year’s anniversary and International Women’s Day celebration was not just a reflection on the past but also a call to action for the future. We urge individuals, institutions, and policymakers to join us in our journey ahead – shaping communities where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
