Poonch observed International Women’s Day with a programme organised by the district administration and the Social Welfare Department, focusing on women’s education, social equality and awareness about government welfare schemes.
POONCH MIRROR NEWS DESK MARCH 8,2026
The district administration and the Department of Social Welfare on Sunday observed International Women’s Day with a programme highlighting the importance of women’s education, social equality and access to government welfare schemes at Government Degree College Poonch.
The event brought together students, Anganwadi workers, members of civil society and officials from different departments to discuss measures aimed at strengthening women’s participation in education and public life.
Deputy Commissioner Ashok Kumar Sharma, who attended the programme as the chief guest, emphasised the central role of education in shaping both individual lives and the broader development of society.
“Education has the power to transform not only individuals but entire communities,” Mr. Sharma said, addressing the gathering. He noted that families where parents are educated often provide stronger support systems for their children, enabling them to pursue opportunities in higher education and professional fields.
Stressing the importance of women’s education, he said empowering women through learning and skill development was essential for sustainable social progress. “When women are educated and aware, the benefits extend to the entire society and to future generations,” he added.
District Social Welfare Officer Khalil Bande outlined several initiatives being implemented by the department to support women and families in the district. He highlighted the need to ensure that beneficiaries are aware of welfare schemes designed for their social and economic uplift.
Among the schemes discussed was the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, under which financial assistance is provided to first-time mothers to support maternal and child health. The scheme, he said, offers eligible beneficiaries assistance of up to ₹5,000.
Mr. Bande urged women to actively seek information about such initiatives and utilise them to strengthen their financial independence and social security. “Women are equal stakeholders in society. Awareness about government schemes is essential to ensure that their rights and entitlements reach them,” he said.
The programme also featured participation from students, who presented short skits and performances highlighting social concerns such as gender discrimination and child marriage. The presentations sought to raise awareness about the importance of education, legal rights and equal opportunities for women.
Officials said similar awareness programmes were being organised in other parts of the district as well, with the aim of encouraging community participation in efforts to promote gender equality.
The event concluded with a call for sustained efforts to ensure that women are provided with equal opportunities in education, employment and decision-making, in line with the broader objectives of International Women’s Day.
Leave a Reply