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India: Manipur Catholic Women Organization holds annual assembly

Archbishop Dominic Lumon of Imphal lights the traditional lamp at the opening ceremony of Manipur Catholic Women Organization’s annual meeting in Imphal, Manipur, India, on April 29, 2022. (Photo by RVA News)

After two years of a break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the women's organizations in the northeast Indian state of Manipur have begun organizing welfare and empowerment activities. 
 
Manipur Catholic Women Organization (MCWO) is the apex body of all the women's societies in the Archdiocese of Imphal, Manipur, a state situated in the North-Eastern corner of India.
 
Due to the pandemic during the past two years plus, they could not come for their annual assembly or organize activities. But, this year, the opening for such a gathering came at a good time, said Madam Catherine, one of the officials of NCWO.
 
Some 100 women representing their respective parishes across the State of Manipur attended the April 29-May 2 event.
 
It was an assembly cum training for members, Catherine said.
 
Madam Catherine welcomed the delegates minutes before the opening ceremony. 
 
According to her, women and their organizations play important roles in society and parishes. 

Delegates of Manipur Catholic Women Organization with Archbishop Dominic Lumon of Imphal, Manpur (Photo by RVA News)

Manipuri women have been known for their valor, skill, and active involvement in many social, economic, political, and cultural activities. 
 
Women in Manipur are particularly noted for their active economic participation and are renowned for their collective empowerment and a strong force for development.
 
They are well-known for their activism against liquor consumption and other societal concerns. They are actively involved in civil society movements for justice and human rights. 
 
Their legacy of women’s collective strength has translated into greater decision-making power at home and in political representation. 

Though constrained by patriarchy, women in Manipur strive to assert their key role when it comes to real decision-making power and tangible actual empowerment.

Women in Manipur society play myriad roles in economic participation and they are powerful as a collective in their role as catalysts of change.

Two-thirds of the population comprises the Meiteis, the majority ethnic community in Manipur. Meitei women are renowned for their unique roles and status in history. 

The opening ceremony of MCWO took place on April 29 in the afternoon, with flag hoisting by Archbishop Dominic Lumon of Imphal who was accompanied by the Chancellor of the diocese, Father Solomon Thezii. 

In his address, the prelate appreciated the role and contribution of women to society and the church. - With inputs from RVA Zo 

 

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