Manipur on Sunday observed International Day of the Girl Child 2020 with the theme “My Voice, our equal future” at Gandhi Memorial with a function organised by the department of Social welfare, government of Manipur.
Speaking as chief guest of the function, commissioner (Social Welfare), H Gyan Prakash said that the day is being observed since the last many years with an objective to empower girl child in all spheres for their well being in the state.
“But gender discrimination, violence against women have not been curbed despite government efforts. Such prevailing scenario indicates the need to revisit plan and strategies for better execution. But collective effort from every walks of life is required to promote girl child,” he stated.
The commissioner further said that the society will be incomplete without girls. “We can only develop a healthier society only when both men and women are treated equally in every spheres. As such, working towards welfare of the girl child to provide them equal access in education, nutrition and job opportunities is good for all,” he said.
Gyan Prakash also appealed to all to take a pledge to remove gender inequality starting from homes, offices, society and community and provide more than equal opportunity and access to the daughters and sisters.
Social welfare director Ngangom Uttam, in his presidential address, opined that the status of girl child of Manipur is far better when compared to other states of India.
“However there is little apprehension in the falling of child sex. The department is putting efforts to improve it under the campaign “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” but cooperation and support from the society is also essential,” he added.
Expressing concern over the growing drug menace in the state, he appealed to the parents to take care of their children very sincerely as their own asset.
“Instead of just investing money to children, parents should also invest their valuable time. Parents should try to notice any behavioural change shown by their children so that immediate remedial steps can be taken,” he suggested.
As a part of the programme, prizes were distributed for various online competition held under “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan” and International day for girl child 2020. The department also launched a website for person with disability and released a short video “The Dawn”.
