Northeast India Women’s Conference Highlights Faith and Leadership

More than 100 women representatives from 15 dioceses across Northeast India gathered in Guwahati for the IV Conference of the Commission for Women, Northeast India, held on May 9–10 at the Jubilee Hall of the North East Diocesan Social Service Society (NEDSSS).

Centered on the theme, “Empowered Women in Faith, Service and Unity,” the conference sought to strengthen women’s participation in the Church and society while fostering solidarity among diocesan women leaders from the region.

The two-day gathering opened with prayer and meditation led by the Women’s Commission of Agartala, setting a reflective tone for the event. The inaugural Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop Dennis Panipitchai, chairman of the Commission for Women, Northeast India, who called on women to become “missionary disciples” rooted in faith and service.

The formal inauguration featured a prayer dance, the traditional lighting of the lamp, and the honoring of guests. In his keynote address, Bishop Panipitchai underscored the importance of empowering women through unity, spiritual formation, and active engagement in society.

Sr. Lidwin Fernandes, National Executive Secretary, encouraged participants to serve with joy and dedication, while diocesan reports highlighted grassroots initiatives led by women across Northeast India.

Throughout the conference, participants attended sessions focused on leadership, education, advocacy, and community development. Sr. Pramila emphasized a holistic approach to women’s empowerment, stressing the need for education, social awareness, and active participation in public life.

Another session explored the structure and responsibilities of the Women’s Commission, encouraging greater collaboration in strengthening families, communities, and the Church. Women delegates also shared testimonies and success stories from their dioceses, offering practical examples of women supporting and uplifting one another.

The second day began with Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Benny Varghese of the Diocese of Itanagar who reflected on the role of women in witnessing to Gospel values in daily life.

Subsequent discussions addressed gender equality, social justice, sustainable development, and cultural identity. Fr. Dr. Amalraj spoke on women’s role in shaping a sustainable future, while Stella Phangchpi led sessions on justice and women’s rights.

Dr. Moushumi Bhattacharjee highlighted the importance of socio-economic empowerment and preserving indigenous traditions and folk culture amid rapid social change.

In another key session, Fr. Kampan Chinnam emphasized media literacy, communication skills, and technological awareness as essential tools for women’s leadership in the digital age.

The conference concluded with a vibrant cultural evening featuring traditional dances, songs, skits, and performances representing the rich cultural diversity of Northeast India. A special reflection on the role of mothers in guiding young people added a pastoral dimension to the celebrations.

Participants ended the gathering with renewed commitment to promoting women’s leadership, strengthening faith communities, and serving as agents of transformation in society.