Ganderbal: (By Farooq Ganderbal) The Voice For Peace and Justice organization  organized International Women's Day at Khaliqa Town Square Ganderbal drawing women activists from all corners to participate. The event saw the presence of prominent women, including Dr. Nighat Yasmeen, Medical Superintendent at District Hospital Ganderbal; Furqanah Salhati, Vice Principal of R-P School Nagbal, Najmu Sehar, Women Activist and Teacher at RP School Nagbal, Dr. Farkhanda Rehman, Veterinarian; Mir Andleeb Bashir, Calligraphic and Visual Artist and Tasleema Majid, former BDC Chairperson Ganderbal, among others.

In her address, Najmu Sehar, a prominent women activist and teacher at R-P School Nagbal, expressed her pride in teaching students about inspirational figures like Kalpana Chawla and other exemplary women. She emphasized the message that women worldwide can achieve anything they aspire to.

Furqanah Salahati, the Vice Principal of R-P School Nagbal, drew a parallel between women's empowerment and Islam in her address. She highlighted the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), who protected women's rights, and the role of Hazrat Fatima (RA) in educating women, citing them as examples of empowerment from within Islamic teachings. Salati advocated for women's rights, emphasizing that these rights are inherent within Islam.

Dr. Nighat Yasmeen, the Chief Guest and Medical Superintendent at District Hospital Ganderbal, emphasized the capabilities and rights of women in her address. She highlighted the increasing presence of women in leadership roles, such as the Chief Medical Officer and Block Medical Officer, and herself as the Medical Superintendent, indicating a positive trend towards gender equality. Dr. Yasmeen expressed the view that women are excelling in every sector and should be empowered to the same extent as men.

Farooq Ganderbali, the president of Voice for Peace and Justice Organisation and a noted social activist, addressed the audience, emphasizing the challenges faced by women in Kashmir due to the influence of radical elements. He highlighted that these elements have historically sought to restrict women's freedom by misinterpreting Islamic teachings. He also mentioned that a cross-border agenda was implemented in the region to oppress women, making them feel handicapped and miserable. However, he expressed pride in the resilience of Kashmiri women, noting their increasing presence and success in various sectors. He acknowledged the role of the Lieutenant Governor's administration in empowering the women of Jammu and Kashmir. Farooq Ganderbali also commended the young girls from the region who have represented India and Kashmir on international and national platforms, showcasing their talent and potential.

Several other prominent personalities, including Ajaz Kawoosi, General Secretary of Voice For Peace and Justice, Zeeshan Farooq Dar, President Utthaan Mission Trust and CEO FM Optics & Health Care, Shehreyar Majid Dar, President Jammu and Kashmir Youth Development Forum, Abdul Rashid Mir, Senior Vice President JKYDF & Managing Director Rayan Industries,  Sofi Samyaz, Joint Secretary Voice For Peace and Justice, and Ghulam Nabi Dar, Director Dar Industries, were also present at the event.

The Women Empowerment Event was a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering women in Kashmir, showcasing their achievements and contributions to society.