Women’s Empowerment and Self-Defence – Nari Kavach Women’s Day Celebration

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Theeradesa Mahila Society (TMS) in collaboration with the Fishermen Community Development Programme (FCDP) organized a programme titled “Nari Kavach”, based on the theme “Give to Gain.”

The programme began with a prayer dance. Mrs. Agnes John, Chairperson of FCDP, delivered the welcome address and Mrs. Lacticia Martin, President of TMS, presided over the function. The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Cynthia Catherine Michael, Principal of Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, by lighting the ceremonial lamp. In her inaugural address, she stated that there are no fields inaccessible to women and emphasized that confidence and courage are the true strengths of women.

During the function, the “Nari Shakti Award” was presented to Shifna Mariam, who has achieved remarkable success in the fields of arts and education despite visual impairment. Coastal women Annie Joseph, Sarala Das, and Geetha Yesudas, who courageously overcame life’s challenges and built successful livelihoods through determination and hard work, were also honoured.

As part of the programme, eight deserving women from the coastal community were provided with sewing machines by FCDP, which were distributed by Sister Annie Joseph. Mrs. Vincy Biju, Chairperson of the Welfare Standing Committee of Kollam Corporation, conveyed her felicitations.

A CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) training session was conducted by the Bishop Benziger College of Nursing to equip participants with life-saving skills required during emergency situations. This was followed by a self-defence training session led by the Kollam Police Women’s Cell, which inspired women to develop confidence and learn techniques for personal safety.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Sister Mary Scaria, Assistant Director of TMS. Several cultural programmes were also presented as part of the celebration.

The Nari Kavach Women’s Day celebration served as a platform to strengthen women’s confidence and security, giving them renewed motivation and strength to face life’s challenges.