International Women's Day (IWD) is celebrated every year on March 8 to honour women's achievements and push for gender equality. The theme for 2025, "Accelerate Action," encourages faster progress in closing gender gaps, especially in education, jobs, and leadership roles. The day is about raising awareness of women's rights and celebrating their contributions to society. It also highlights the challenges women still face, like discrimination, unequal pay, and limited opportunities. IWD serves as a reminder that we must continue working toward a more equal and fair world for women.
IWD motivates people to take action by coming together to recognise these issues. It’s a day to remind everyone that, while progress has been made, there’s still a long way to go to create a world where all women can thrive and lead.
GPlus spoke with several individuals from various fields on IWD, each sharing their personal views, experiences, and reflections on what women truly need in today's world. From the importance of gender equality, safety and education to the power of financial independence, their perspectives highlighted both the progress we’ve made and the challenges that still lie ahead. Here’s what they had to say:
An empowering moment in my life as a woman was when I took the bold step of leaving my home in Jorhat and moving to Guwahati to pursue my education. This decision was not just about studying; it was about embracing independence, stepping out of my comfort zone, and taking control of my own future. The experience has shaped me into the strong, resilient individual I am today, helping me face challenges head-on and take responsibility for my own growth.
This journey of self-discovery and empowerment is something I believe is crucial for every woman. Women must have the courage to chase their dreams and break barriers, proving that they are just as capable as men in every sphere of life. I firmly believe that in today’s world, men and women have equal potential to achieve great things and contribute meaningfully to society, making the world a more progressive and inclusive place.
—----Eshani Borthakur (Student)
I feel what women’s need in 2025 is primarily safety. And this is absolutely important as there is a lot of crime against women, in today’s world. However, there are people among us, samaritans who are raising their voices against the crimes, but not much of a difference is being caused unless and until the laws and rules are imposed. So, safety is the number one priority today for women, be it public or private spaces. And, that has to be focused on solely.
—-- Santusthi Shaw (Student)
I strongly believe that women deserve equal opportunities in every aspect of life, whether it be in society, careers, pay, or social status. However, beyond these essential rights, one fundamental necessity stands above all—safety. Without ensuring the safety of women in all walks of life, true equality will remain an unfulfilled promise. A society that does not prioritise the security of its women cannot claim to be fair or progressive.
This is why I firmly emphasise that safety must be the topmost priority for women today. Every woman deserves to live, work, and thrive without fear. Additionally, my advice to young girls growing up is to be strong, confident, and empowered. They must learn to face challenges with courage and determination. Only by fostering resilience and self-belief can they stand up against the injustices still prevalent in society and work toward a future where women are truly equal and free.
—----Arghya Saha (Student)
As a woman, I firmly believe that equality is the most fundamental necessity for women in today’s world. Gender equality is not just about having the same status as men in society; it goes far beyond that. True equality means having the same rights, opportunities, and recognition in every aspect of life—be it education, careers, leadership, or personal choices.
However, achieving this equality is not just about demanding change; it is about actively working toward it. Women must take charge of their own empowerment by striving for excellence, breaking stereotypes, and challenging outdated norms. Whether it is ensuring safety, fighting for equal opportunities, or overcoming deep-rooted social barriers and injustices, we must collectively create a platform that uplifts and supports women. Only by uniting in our efforts and fostering a culture of inclusion can we ensure that women stand on the same pedestal as men, truly empowered and independent.
—-----Shilpa Devi (Student)
I strongly believe that while significant strides have been made in reducing the gender gap and addressing disparities between men and women, there is still a long journey ahead. Progress is undeniable—women have excelled and made remarkable advancements in diverse fields such as education, arts, science, business, and leadership. Their achievements continue to break barriers and challenge outdated norms.
However, despite these advancements, deep-rooted inequalities persist in many segments of society. There are still communities where women face discrimination, limited access to education, unequal pay, and fewer opportunities for growth. Social, cultural, and economic barriers continue to hinder the progress of many, and this must change. True equality can only be achieved when every woman, regardless of background or circumstances, has the same opportunities as men. It is absolutely imperative that we continue advocating for gender equality, ensuring that fairness, inclusivity, and empowerment become a reality for all.
—--Dr. Gayatri Sarma (Teacher-Professor)
In today’s world, women are being granted the same opportunities and rights as men across various aspects of life, including education, career, and leadership. Society has evolved to recognise the potential of women, and many doors that were once closed are now open. However, to truly make the most of these opportunities, young women must cultivate a fierce, determined, and competitive spirit.
To every young woman striving for success, my advice is to approach life with unwavering dedication, hard work, integrity, and sincerity. Challenges will arise, but they should be seen as stepping stones rather than obstacles. Overcoming these hurdles with resilience and perseverance will not only empower women but also contribute significantly to the progress of our nation. When women rise to their full potential, they inspire future generations and help build a more inclusive, strong, and prosperous society for all.
—---Dr. Akhtar Hussain
Coming from a police background and serving as a female constable myself, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress women have made in society. Today, women are standing shoulder to shoulder with men in all aspects of life, whether it be employability, career opportunities, leadership roles, or fields once dominated by men. Women are not only competing on equal footing but, in many cases, surpassing expectations and excelling in their chosen paths.
However, while these advancements are commendable, one crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked is the safety and security of women in today’s world. Ensuring that women feel protected, both in public and private spaces, is of utmost importance. A society can only truly thrive when its women feel empowered, confident, and free from fear. By fostering a culture of respect, vigilance, and strong legal enforcement, we can create a world where women can continue to flourish without limitations.
—---Rina Moni Begum (Constable)
Proper education is one of the most crucial factors for women in 2025. In today’s fast-evolving world, it unlocks opportunities, empowerment, and independence. Without it, progress in any field becomes nearly impossible. Education provides women with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to make informed decisions, pursue their dreams, and contribute to society. I believe both men and women are progressing side by side, proving their capabilities in every domain. However, when it comes to education for women, history tells a different story. In earlier times, women faced discrimination and barriers to basic education. Fortunately, times have changed, and women are now breaking chains, excelling academically, and proving their worth. We’ve come a long way, and the future holds even greater promise.
—---Bipasha Das (Student)
In today’s fast-paced world, it has become important for women to have their own source of income. Financial independence is not just about earning money; it’s about having the power to make decisions, support oneself, and contribute to society with confidence. A woman doesn’t need an extraordinary career, but a stable income allows her to stand on her own. It gives her the freedom to shape her own future, pursue her dreams, and face challenges with resilience.
At the same time, it’s heartening to see men playing a more supportive role in this journey. Many husbands, brothers, and fathers are encouraging the women to pursue education, careers, and financial independence. This shift in mindset is a positive step toward true gender equality, for both men and women.
—---Daiji Sarma (Business Owner)
