Kohima: Noklak officials gathered at White Hall on October 14 to mark International Girl Child Day 2026. SANKALP, the District Hub for Empowerment of Women, hosted the event under the banner of ending child marriage and protecting girls' rights. Students and local organization leaders attended the meeting to discuss the urgent need for reform.
Dr. Meyachungla Jamir, Medical Officer at the Integrated AYUSH Hospital, pointed to gender inequality as the root cause of the problem. She noted that early marriage damages a child's education, psychological health, and physical safety. Statistics show that people aged 15 to 24 face higher risks of sexual violence and infections. She cited National Family Health Survey data to explain how early wedlock stunts emotional growth. It stops young people from making their own life choices.
Addressing the local culture, Dr. Jamir stated: "Although women enjoy greater freedom in certain areas, equality remains a challenge within a patriarchal society."
Khiamniungan Menyiu Hoikam President K. Chongkoi advised young girls to value their own dignity and health. Khumeng T, from the Child Helpline, pushed for better protection of underprivileged girls and school dropouts. He urged churches and local groups to collaborate with government teams to track children in need. Khumeng reminded the crowd that the National Child Helpline 1098 is available alongside the District Child Protection Unit, Sakhi One Stop Centre, Specialised Adoption Agency, and District Hub for Empowerment of Women.
Ajongla Temjen, District Programme Officer for ICDS, called the prevalence of child marriage in the region a sad reality. H. Hang Shio chaired the event, while H. Ngoun led the invocation and Shing B delivered the final vote of thanks.
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