Arunachal: APWWS celebrates 45th foundation day with empowering initiatives for women’s rights

The Arunachal Pradesh Women’s Welfare Society (APWWS) commemorated its 45th Foundation Day with a grand celebration at Dree Ground in the state capital. The event was graced by the Minister of Women and Child Development, Cultural Affairs, and Child Development, Dasanglu Pul, who served as the Chief Guest.

As a leading organization in the region, APWWS has been instrumental in addressing women’s grievances and raising awareness about their rights, exemplifying its ongoing commitment to women’s empowerment. To further this mission, a legal awareness camp was held during the celebration. Organized by the Arunachal Pradesh Legal Services Authority, the camp focused on free marriage registration, counseling services, and legal education about various laws and welfare schemes benefiting women.

The camp attracted several couples who sought to register their marriages and learn about the legal protections available to them. Discussions included victim compensation, women’s rights, and key initiatives mandated by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), as well as various government welfare schemes aimed at improving women’s livelihoods.

Despite heavy rainfall, Minister Pul received a warm welcome and toured the legal camp to better understand its ongoing activities. She also visited stalls showcasing handmade crafts, organic products, and pickles created by members of APWWS, highlighting the organization’s support for local women entrepreneurs.

In her address to the media, Minister Pul lauded APWWS for its significant contributions over the years and urged women to remain focused on achieving their life goals. "During the BJP regime, we have ensured that women’s empowerment is a priority in every community. The recent rise in cases of molestation and assault is condemnable, but it is under our government that such cases are being brought into the public domain, allowing the law to take appropriate action. Earlier, many of these cases went unreported due to weak legal frameworks. Women must come forward to avail themselves of the welfare schemes designed for them and access government facilities," Pul emphasized.

APWWS President Kani Nada Maling also addressed the media, stressing the importance of compulsory marriage registration for couples. "Marriage registration is an essential document that enables women to access various facilities such as insurance, visa applications, inheritance rights, pensions, and government benefits. It provides legal recognition to their marriage, which is crucial. Women must not remain silent—they should fight for their rights in a proper and organized manner," Maling urged.

The event, marking 45 years of dedicated service to women's causes, was a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for legal awareness and empowerment initiatives across Arunachal Pradesh.