COMMISSION FOR SOCIAL COMMUNICATIONS- BARODA

101th International Women Day Celebration

at Navsarjan, Surat!!!

101th Internation Women Day was celebrated with a great fervor and in a very grand style by the women of Navsarjan Mahila Parishad -A federation of 25 Mahila Mandals!!!

This year since 8th March was the festival of colors (Holi, Dhuleti) Navsarjan Mahila Parishad organized the WOMEN DAY CELEBRATION on 11th March at Rang Upvan, Near Gandhi Baug, Chawk, Surat - SMC managed open auditorium.

Over 1500 Women from 25 Mahila Mandals, belonging to 25 slums, dressed for the festive occasion poured in at Rang Upvan through the streets of Surat city singing loudly for women's rights – especially RIGHT TO FOOD. The festive fervor was quite visible on the lit faces of women gathered at the venue.

The theme chosen for this year's International women day celebration was, "FOOD SECURITY IS LIFE SECURITY!! – ANNA SURAKSHA EJ JIVAN RAKSHA."

Ms Krishnaben Dabhi Police Inspector of Women Police Station was the Chief Guest of the program.

Among the other honorable dignitaries present on the dais were Fr Isaac Rumao sj, Director, Navsarjan; Social Activist Shmt. Zoharaben Cyclewala; Srs Bridgit, Evita & Johnsilla; Shmt. Madhuben Pagare - President of Bhagyalaxmi Credit Cooperative Society and Shmt. Sunitaben Panpatil - President of Navsarjan Mahila Parishad.

In her address Ms Krishnaben Dabhi congratulated the women for gathering in such a big number, hailed them for their contribution in the family and assured them of her support in fighting against domestic violence against women. She also emphasized that women need to be more alert, united and vocal to fight out and prevent the rape and other forms of sexual violence that harm the lives and dignity of countless women in conflict zones such as the slums.

Fr Isaac in his address spoke about Right to Food program – an initiative of JESA - Gujarat Jesuits in Social Action & highlighted the significant difference this movement has made so far in the lives of so many poor people across Gujarat. He also stressed that it is the commitment of the women which is in fact making this movement a success!!!

The women activist Ms Zoharaben in her inspiring speech ignited the hearts and minds of the women present. She also spoke about Food Security Bill and the flaws that it contains.

The president of Navsarjan Mahila Parishad Shmt Sunitaben Panpatil who works as a Volunteer for Right to Food program shared with women about her struggle to get government official to implement on different schemes initiated by the Central Government for the welfare of poor people. She spoke of the gross injustice, rampant corruption and delays in getting benefits experienced by the beneficiaries at the hands of government officials.

The cultural program put up by the girl students of tailoring classes run by Mahila Mandals was the highlight of the day's program and the delight of the audience. It gave them an opportunity to exhibit and showcases their talents before the women audience. The cultural program put up by the budding stars from the slums of Surat made the day memorable one for all present.

The members of the Navsarjan Mahila Parishad staged a short play on Right to Food in which they highlighted how they are fighting out bravely against corruption and accessing government schemes. It created greater awareness amongst the people present. The acting was superb. They acted as if they were veterans. The play was very much appreciated by one and all.

To promote higher education amongst the girls Navsarjan Mahila Parishad feliciated the girls who have passed the 10th and 12th.

To prevent malnourishment and to promote health conscience amongst the slum people Navsarjan Mahila Parishad had organized healthy child competition in the 0-1yr age category. Many participants took part in the event and the 1st three were given away the prizes.