Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar 12: International Women’s Day 2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and warmth on 12th March, at the Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Brookshabad, where hundreds of mothers of Divyang children gathered for a memorable occasion filled with appreciation, joy, and empowerment. The programme was formally inaugurated by Ms Shweta K Suganthan, IPS, SP, South Andaman with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp. The event was organised by CRC, Andaman & Nicobar Islands in association with Pankh NGO led by its President Mrs. Komal Anand and the team.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest appreciated the resilience and determination of mothers of children with special needs and said that women today are excelling in every chosen field. On the occasion, she also felicitated Mrs. Binita Kumari Toppo as a “woman of substance” for her inspiring role and contribution. The function was also graced by Guest of Honour Swami Suddhanand of Chinmaya Mission and Special Guest Mrs. Pallavi Gupta from Inner Wheel Club.
In her keynote address, Sumithamol S, Director, CRC, A & N Islands stated that Women’s Day is a tribute to the strength, courage, and resilience of women who shape families and society. She highlighted that mothers of children with special needs represent unconditional love, patience, and perseverance, and reaffirmed CRC’s commitment to empowering women, strengthening families, and promoting dignity and inclusion for persons with disabilities through collaborative initiatives with organisations such as Pankh NGO.
Earlier, Mr. Kishore Kumar Saha, Asst. Prof. Special Education delivered the welcome address and warmly greeted the dignitaries, parents, and children present on the occasion. In his address, Swami Suddhanand began with the rendition of Bharat Mata ki jai and spoke about the spiritual strength and nurturing role of mothers in shaping society. Mrs. Komal Anand also addressed the gathering briefly, reiterating her organisation’s commitment to supporting families of children with special needs and promoting inclusive community initiatives.
An inspiring session was delivered by Dr. Supriya Dutta, Proprietor of Paras Food Factory, SHG member and mother of a special child, who shared her personal journey and motivated mothers on the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for the empowerment and economic independence of mothers of Divyangjan.
The programme featured a vibrant series of activities including story sharing sessions, wheelchair dance, ramp walk, and cultural performances presented by children and their mothers, reflecting confidence, courage, and joy. All participating mothers were felicitated during the celebration, bringing smiles to many faces, followed by lunch and exchange of gifts and warm pleasantries. A heartfelt tribute to the strength, love and resilience of mothers who continue to inspire us every day.
