Women’s Day 2017 was celebrated highlighting the U.N.O theme “Be Bold for change” – a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

Rallies, meetings, blood donation camps and recognition of women for their extraordinary work marked the International Women’s Day celebration in service organizations, NGOs, educational institutions, hospitals and clubs in the city.

SCAD-Nirman Rural Development observed Women’s Day on 18^th March and the celebration started with the formation of a Human Chain in front of Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpet, Tirunelveli, showing the solidarity and strength of Women-power to the society where 50%-50% of gender equality is expected. The Human Chain was followed by raising slogans and taking a special oath.

Soon after, a host of successful women from different sectors of the society addressed the Women Self Help Group members from SCAD-Nirman working villages about the need for women education, women empowerment and women development. Dr. Venila, DGO, Government Medical Hospital, Tirunelveli, spoke on health issues related to women. Ms. S.C. Kerena Ranjitham, M.L., Asst. Professor – Government Law College, Tirunelveli, spoke on the various Acts for women, but also added that these should not come as a deterrent to their family life. This is an era, where women cannot be innocent or ignorant, and Mrs. Stella Jeryl from the Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli, spoke on the Importance of Education and wanted the women to be independent. Dr. Prasanna Kumari, St. Xavier’s College, Palayamkottai, spoke on ‘Women as champions’.

Dr. Cletus Babu, Founder Chairman of SCAD Group spoke on the challenges faced by women in the changing world and wished them good luck to be pioneers of change in this world by showcasing their leadership talents. He also honoured the Women Self help groups that had received awards from the Government of Tamilnadu for their effective contribution and functioning of their group.

Students from SCAD Special Teachers’ Training Institute and SCAD School for the Gypsy children staged cultural programmes and entertained the gathering. Around 1,000 women from in and around Tirunelveli actively participated in the function and made it colourful and vibrant by their participation. Few groups presented their handmade articles and other items for sale.  Sweet packets were distributed to one and all and the function “celebrating women” ended happily and successfully.