Governor attends awareness programme on empowerment of adolescent girls
Empowerment of girls is a national priority: Governor
Governor urges all stakeholders to create a nurturing ecosystem where every girl can dream freely and achieve her aspirations
Guwahati,Rongili Barta: Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya said that empowerment of adolescent girls is a national priority as the progress of the country is intrinsically associated with the capacity building of the women.
Addressing the adolescent girls on an awareness programme organised as a part of the Sewa Sankalp Saptah at Assam Administrative Staff College here today, the Governor said that ‘Nari Shakti’ holds the key to overall development of the nation. He also said that empowerment of women is not merely a social responsibility but a national priority, as the progress of society and the nation is not possible without the progress of the women.
The Governor underscored that empowerment is a transformative process that encompasses independent decision-making, self-reliance, self-confidence, and the courage to overcome challenges. He described adolescence as the most sensitive and decisive phase of life, where timely guidance, education, security, and opportunities can enable even an ordinary girl to achieve extraordinary success.
Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi who said, “If you want to change a society, empower women and adolescent girls”, the Governor said that taking inspiration from the Prime Minister, the Government is working wholeheartedly for empowering women. Citing Mukhya Mantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyan, Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina Scheme, Mukhya Mantrir Jibon Prerana and Auprerana Scheme, Chief Minister’s Atmanirbhar Asom Abhijan etc have been launched to give the women a conducive atmosphere for empowerment.
Highlighting the importance of education as the foundation of empowerment, the Governor emphasized that in today’s digital era, learning must go beyond textbooks. He called for greater focus on digital literacy, technical skills, life skills, and leadership development to prepare girls for emerging opportunities.
Referring to key initiatives of the Govt. of India, he mentioned that Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Digital India, the National Skill Development Mission, etc aim to strengthen education, health, safety, skill development, and entrepreneurship among girls and women. He further referred to Mission Shakti and Mission Vatsalya, being implemented by the Department of Women and Child Development to ensure nutrition, safety, protection, and holistic development of women and adolescent girls.
Speaking on the impact of social media, the Governor observed that while digital platforms offer avenues for communication, learning, and entrepreneurship, excessive use, cyberbullying, misinformation, and privacy concerns pose significant challenges. He, therefore, stressed on the need for digital literacy, cyber security awareness, and responsible usage of internet. He appealed to parents and teachers to act as guides and mentors, fostering open communication and positive engagement.
The Governor also called for collective action against social evils such as child marriage, child labour, and violence against women. He observed that true empowerment lies in nurturing self-respect, awareness of rights, and the confidence to make informed decisions.
On the occasion, several individuals were honoured for their contributions at the grassroots level. Anganwadi Worker Kuntala Devi, District Child Protection Officer Malavika Kalita, and Nari Adalat Justice Sakhi Roshemi Boro were felicitated for their dedicated efforts toward safeguarding and uplifting adolescent girls.
The Governor also lauded inspiring young achievers. Gauri Gosai was commended for courageously opposing child marriage, setting an example of determination and awareness. Namita Kherkatari of Chirang was appreciated for winning medals at national and international karate championships, while Jessica Ramudamu was felicitated for securing gold and silver medals in kickboxing, exemplifying confidence and excellence through sports.
Emphasising that empowerment is a continuous process requiring sustained awareness, supportive policies, community participation, and courage, the Governor urged all stakeholders to create a nurturing ecosystem where every girl can dream freely and achieve her aspirations.
The programme which was organised by Lok Bhavan in association with the department of Women and Child Development, Government of Assam, and UNICEF witnessed the participation of additional Chief Secretary Mukesh Chandra Sahu, Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor S.S. Meenakshi Sundaram, Director, Department of Women and Child Development, Gauri Shankar Sharma, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF Assam, Lakshminarayan Nanda, and a host of other participants.