From sports to social change: Women achievers honoured in Arunachal on International Women’s Day

Marking the spirit of resilience, leadership and empowerment, the Department of Women and Child Development of Arunachal Pradesh felicitated outstanding women achievers and institutions during the celebrations of International Women’s Day 2026 in Itanagar. Held under the inspiring theme “Give to Gain,” the event honoured individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to social progress, women’s empowerment and community development across the state.

The celebrations took place at the D K Convention Centre, where Pasang Dorjee Sona, Minister for Education, Tourism and Rural Works Department, attended as the Chief Guest. Dasanglu Pul, Minister for Women and Child Development and Science & Technology, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, while Tsering Lhamu, Advisor to the Minister of Women and Child Development, attended as the Special Guest.

During the ceremony, 15 individual women achievers along with several institutions were recognised for their exemplary contributions in diverse fields. Each individual awardee received a cash prize of ₹1 lakh along with a citation, while selected institutions were honoured with ₹2 lakh and a citation in recognition of their impactful work.

Among the notable awardees, Soigan Pansa of Longding was honoured in the category of Economic and Social Empowerment of Women, while Sailu Bellai from Tezu was recognised for contributions in Education and Training. Mopin Ete received the award for Environment Protection, and Rerik Karlo Digbak was honoured in the field of Art and Culture.

In the Sports category, Khinsan Wangsu, Hillang Yajik, and Mercy Nagimong were felicitated for their achievements. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Nakhi Tangjang and Rina Sonam, officers at the Itanagar Women Police Station, were honoured for their bravery and courage in the line of duty. Nadang Kino of Seppa was also among the recipients recognised for her contributions.

In the institutional category, several organisations were honoured for their impactful work in education, social welfare and women’s empowerment. These included Vivekananda Kenduya Vidyalaya, Sunpura, Wong Ama Self Help Group of Tawang, Jhamtse Gatsal Foundation, Tawang, Apatani Women Association of Ziro (AWAZ), and the Donyi Polo Mission School for the Hearing & Visually Impaired.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona highlighted the strong position of women in the state’s grassroots governance structure. He noted that women in Arunachal Pradesh are already significantly empowered, with over 50 per cent representation in Panchayati Raj institutions, reflecting the growing leadership role of women in shaping the state’s development.

Minister Dasanglu Pul, while speaking to India Today, stated that the Women Achievers Award initiative was launched by the department in 2020 to recognise talented and progressive women who are driving positive change in society. She added that the initiative aims to encourage women, celebrate their contributions, and inspire future generations to pursue leadership and excellence.

The celebration not only honoured remarkable individuals and organisations but also reinforced Arunachal Pradesh’s commitment to building an inclusive society where women’s achievements are recognised and their voices amplified.