Leadership development programme for militancy-affected victims in Assam

Guwahati, Aug.3 (ANI): In a special endeavour to empower young women, especially the militancy-affected victims, a multi-skill and leadership development programme was organised recently in Guwahati.

Organised by the North Eastern Girls Students Association in collaboration with IGNOU Institute of Vocational Education and Training, Shillong, the three-week programme was first of its kind.

A total of about 90 women from different parts of the north-east participated in the event. Of them at least 20 were militancy-affected victims from various parts of Assam.

Computer education, yoga and meditation, art and crafts, communication skills training were imparted to the participants.

"We have involved those families in the camp who were affected by militants. Our aim is to work against militant activities. So, we are working to empower the people," said Munmi Dutta, General Secretary, North Eastern Girls Students Association, Assam

"I am here as a member of a family affected by militancy. I am feeling really good about this. We are learning computers, Yoga class, as well as personality development," said Ilora Barman, a participant.

The programme aimed to build up empowered young women who can play a proactive role in the nation-building process.

The militancy-affected victims told that they wanted a complete end to violence in the region.

"Whatever disturbances our state is facing, for whatever reason my father was killed by militants, I wish no other family goes through such a phase. I want peace," said Kholima, a participant.

"I hope the problems caused by militancy are solved soon. In our state, there should be no more victims in militant violence. Militants should give up the path of violence and come forward for peace. I also pray for all the victims that they should live in peace," Tulasa Devi, a participant

Such initiatives are hoped to boost the morale of those whose dreams and hopes have been shattered due to mindless violence unleashed by militants in the north-east. By Peter Alex Todd (ANI)