Dr Gonmei bats for gender equality

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Mar 5 : Promoting gender equality,  Health Director Dr Chambo Gonmei has appealed to the public to value girl children and challenge societal norms that often favor boys over girls.
He made the appeal during the observance of National Girl Child Day 2025 cum sensitization programme on "Gender Discrimination & Pre Conception & Pre-Natal Diagnostic Technique (PC-PNDT) Act" at the Heritage Hall of Indian Medical Association (IMA) at Lamphelpat today.
Addressing the programme held under the theme "Empowering girls for a brighter future" as chief guest, Dr Gonmei emphasized that women are equally capable of achieving greatness and making valuable contributions to society.
He continued that Manipur has made notable progress in promoting gender equality but some sections  of people still look down on girl children.
Saying that  many families in Manipur still favour boys over girls, Dr Chambo asked the  people to take pride in having a girl child to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
The Health Director further said that all children irrespective of their gender must be given equal opportunities to shape their future.
He, meanwhile, prayed for peace to return in  Manipur.
Family Welfare Director Dr N Hemantakumar who was the president of the function said  that the  iconic Khwairamband Keithel market, run entirely by women, showcases the society's deep appreciation for women's contributions.
Saying that women especially should support and uplift each other, rather than perpetuating gender discrimination, he appealed to every parent to take pride in their children, regardless of whether they are boys or girls.
Gender discrimination should be avoided at all costs, he added.
State Mission Director of National Health Mission Dr M Dinesh was the guest of honour  of  the programme organised by the Directorate of Family Welfare Services and State Health Society, NHM, Manipur.