(ANS – Bangalore) – On International Women’s Day, the Theeradesa Mahila Society (TMS), in collaboration with the Fisher Community Development Programme (FCDP) of the Salesian Province of Bangalore (INK), organised a special programme entitled ‘Nari Kavach’ in Kollam, Kerala. The celebration, centred on the theme ‘Give to receive’, highlighted women’s empowerment, resilience and community solidarity. The programme began with a prayer dance that set a reflective and celebratory tone for the gathering. Mrs Agnes John, President of the FCDP, welcomed the participants, while Mrs Lacticia Martin, President of the TMS, presided over the ceremony. The event was opened by Dr Cynthia Catherine Michael, Principal of the Fatima Mata National Institute in Kollam, who lit the ceremonial lamp. In her opening address, she emphasised that no field is beyond the reach of women and noted that confidence and courage remain their greatest strengths. A significant moment was the presentation of the Nari Shakti Award to Shifna Mariam, who has achieved remarkable results in the field of arts and education despite her visual impairment. The organisers also honoured coastal women Annie Joseph, Sarala Das and Geetha Yesudas. As part of the initiative, eight members of the community received sewing machines from the FCDP as part of a development project aimed at securing them decent work.
