On May 20, 2024, Mrs. Monalisha Gonon, a dedicated nurse and an esteemed guest lecturer at Gelabil Primary Health Center, delivered an inspiring session on the significance of women's empowerment and rights, focusing on the mushroom cultivation domain.

As the trainers warmly welcomed her and introduced her to the eager trainees, Mrs. Gonon greeted the group of women with a reassuring smile, encouraging them to feel at ease. She opened her session by emphasizing the profound respect Indian culture holds for women, highlighting the revered female deities: Laxmi, the goddess of wealth; Durga, the goddess of power and strength; and Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom. She passionately conveyed that women embody these powerful attributes and, thus, should recognize their inherent strength and not fear any challenges.

Transitioning to a more interactive part of the session, Mrs. Gonon engaged the trainees by asking them about the major domestic issues they faced. One trainee courageously shared her experience of ill-treatment by her husband, exacerbated by his alcohol abuse and verbal insults. 

Addressing these concerns, Mrs. Gonon discussed the broad spectrum of women's rights, including the right to be free from sexual violence, to vote, to hold public office, to enter into legal contracts, to have equal family law rights, to work, to receive fair wages, and to have reproductive rights. She emphasized that achieving these rights requires stepping out of one's comfort zone, building networks, being authentic, working on self-confidence, raising one's voice, supporting each other, getting involved, educating oneself and one's children, and knowing one's rights.

Mrs. Gonon concluded her empowering talk by motivating the trainees to stand united and confront any challenges they encounter. She encouraged them to collaborate and strive for financial independence, highlighting that collective action can lead to remarkable achievements and effectively address many issues. Her words resonated deeply with the trainees, leaving them inspired and determined.

The session ended with the trainees expressing their heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Gonon for her uplifting speech and the invaluable knowledge she imparted.