The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Manipur Regional Office, celebrated International Women’s Day 2026 at Sangai Hall, Hotel Imphal, under the theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting the importance of empowering women to build stronger communities and a more inclusive economy.

Speaking at the event, Partha Mandal, General Manager and Officer-in-Charge of NABARD Manipur, said the occasion reaffirmed the commitment to equality, dignity and empowerment of women. He noted that investing in women through opportunities, resources and recognition strengthens families, communities and the overall socio-economic structure.

Mandal highlighted NABARD’s initiatives such as the Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme and the SHE Mart initiative, which aim to enhance women’s economic participation and help them become job creators.

Chief Guest N. Bandana Devi, IAS, Secretary of Skill, Labour, Employment & Entrepreneurship (SLEE) and State Mission Director of MSRLM, said the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission is currently supporting over 1.3 lakh women through SHGs across the state. She encouraged women to empower themselves and contribute to the development of their families and communities.

She also appreciated NABARD’s role in strengthening women’s empowerment and rural livelihoods. The event also featured presentations on NABARD initiatives, e-commerce on the ONDC platform, experience sharing by women entrepreneurs, exhibitions of SHG products and felicitation of women staff of NABARD Manipur Regional Office.