Globally observed on 8th March every year, International Women’s Day 2019 was celebrated with fervour at SOS India! Click here to read more about various programmes organised across India to commemorate this special day.
Globally observed on 8th March every year, International Women’s Day serves as a reminder to provide for a world where women stand at par with men with equal opportunities and resources. This year, the day was celebrated with vigour in all projects across India.
1. SOS Children’s Village Jaipur
To observe IWD2019, special programmes were organized in two FSP locations- Girdharipura and Harmada. The celebration witnessed the presence of our Chief Guest Dr. Parmeshwari Mishra, Dr. Madhu Choudhary, Dr. Swati and Local Leader Mr. Gopal Kisan. The programme began with the guests addressing the audience; they said- “Today, women are going far ahead and work shoulder to shoulder with men all fields. They are part of defense, advocate equality and women’s rights and give in their best at home.”

2. SOS Children’s Village Visakhapatnam
To honor women on the special occasion of International Women’s Day, SOS Children’s Village Visakhapatnam and Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, Bheemunipatnam, jointly celebrated the day on 8th March 2019, in the Community Bhavan. The programme was graced by the presence of our eminent Chief Guest Ms. Swarna Kumari Garu, Director, Mahila Action and Guests of Honor Ms. Visalakshi Garu, Chairperson, Human Rights, Mr. Srinivas Rao Garu, TPRO-UCD-MEPMA, Bheemili, Mr. Dinabandu Garu, Lecturer and Ms. Juthika Das Garu, Assistant Village Director of SOS CV Visakahpatnam.
As part of the celebration, 200 women from Routhalapalem, Geddapeta, Mulakuddi, Kummaripalem and Bheemunipatnam came together and worked hard to make this a success. As Ms. Kumari addressed the audience, she said- “There should always be a balance between career and family. Women cannot be successful without the support of their families. In today’s time, girls should be taught to defend themselves and be prepared for any mishap that may befall them. In future, I am certain that women would play a very important role in politics too, as they do now.”

3. SOS Children’s Village Srinagar
International Women’s Day was celebrated at Pamposh Colony in Srinagar. The programme was facilitated by the members of Bachpan Bachao Bal Panchayat and started with a welcome note, delivered by Ms. Sahista, Leader of the Bal Panchayat.
While Ms. Dilshada, leader of Jhelum Self Help Group, gave a speech about the positive impact of FSP in their life, Ms. Surya, Secretary of the Bal Panchayat, shared stories of transformation after SOS India’s intervention in their cluster. Additionally, a skit was presented by the members of Bal Panchayat on the theme- Role and Status of Women, shedding light on the prevailing social issues around them and the importance of women to bring about a positive change in their environment.
The programme was concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Shayista, Leader of Bal Panchayat.

4. SOS FSP Community- Anangpur
The day started with a warm welcome of chief guests in different communities, followed by scintillating and thought-provoking performances by children along the theme of “Balance for Better”. The celebrations emphasised the importance of having healthy and happy family bonds.
The event was graced by Mr. Babu Selvum, (Director) World Vision, Faridabad, Mrs. Gayatri Solanki, (Director) Sarthi Foundation, Delhi, Mr. Riyaz Khan Project Incharge, SOS-Anangpur, Mr. Mohd. Ayyub Khan, Principal SOS HGP School, Anangpur & Mr. Rony, Principal SOS Nursing School, Faridabad. All dignitaries shared their views and ideas about women empowerment. Bal Panchayat Children from FSP communities presented Welcome Song, Group Dance, Musical Yoga and Street Play (Nukkad Natak) on “Beti Bachao Beti Padho” , “Role of Women for the Society” highlighting the theme of the day. Few caregivers also shared their thoughts on women’s day.
