A grand programme to celebrate International Women’s Day was held at Sports Stadium Kathua on Sunday evening, drawing enthusiastic participation from people from across the district. The programme was organised by the Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the District Administration Kathua as part of the week-long celebration activities held across the district to mark International Women’s Day.
Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kathua Dr Bharat Bhushan and Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Jasrota Rajiv Jasrotia graced the occasion and lauded the achievements of women across various fields. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Dr Bharat Bhushan described the day as a celebration of women achievers who are excelling in diverse sectors and contributing significantly to society.
He said it is the collective duty of every citizen to support and encourage girl child, mothers, sisters and women in every sphere of life so that they can realise their full potential. Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma highlighted that the district administration organised a series of activities throughout the week to mark International Women’s Day.
“These included awareness drives, health and nutrition camps, sports events, awareness drives and legal and safety sessions aimed at celebrating the strength and achievements of women,” he added. He emphasised that empowering women is essential for building a progressive and inclusive society.
Earlier, a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring women achievers from multiple fields was held. The panelists included SSP Mohita Sharma (IPS), Kangna Gupta (Judiciary), Dr Sulakshna Mengi (Retired Pediatrician), Pooja Devi and Reva Rani (Entrepreneurs).
They shared insights from their journeys, highlighting challenges they overcame and delivered inspiring messages for fellow women to pursue their aspirations with confidence and determination. The cultural segment of the programme enthralled the audience as budding talent Gayatri Kandley, winner of Voice of Punjab-6, renowned singer Sonali Dogra and daughter of the soil Vibha Bharti, winner of Awaaz Punjab Di, mesmerised the jam-packed Sports Stadium with their captivating performances.
The panelists were felicitated for their achievements and contributions. Young sports achievers including Tania Sharma (Cricket), Anu Sharma (Shooting), Nysa Singh (Kabaddi) and Kamiya Rajput (Karate) were also honoured for bringing laurels to the district.
Among others present were Director Social Welfare Jammu Ranjit Singh; ADC Vishavjeet Singh; CPO Ranjeet Thakur; District Social Welfare Officer Varun Chaudhary, besides other district and sectoral officers and a large number of people.