Inaugural Rajabala Das National Award Ceremony Honors Dr. Monisha Behal for Social Activism at Handique Girls’ College

The Rajabala Das Smriti Raksha Samiti, in collaboration with the Teachers’ Unit and college authorities at Handique Girls’ College, organized the First Rajabala Das National Award Ceremony and Annual Lecture on March 8, 2024. Dr. Monisha Behal, a distinguished social development activist and co-founder of North East Network, received the prestigious award for her outstanding contributions to society. The ceremony included a symbolic memento, a citation, a traditional eri chador, and a Rs. 50,000 cheque. In her acceptance speech, Dr. Behal highlighted the importance of gender equality in nation-building and shared her grassroots experiences in Assam and Nagaland.

Renowned writer and senior journalist Sanjoy Hazarika delivered the 1st Rajabala Das Annual Lecture on “Text and Context: Women, Gender, and Safe Spaces in Assam and the North East Region.” Hazarika addressed critical issues surrounding women’s safety, education, health, and violence, emphasizing the need for research in uncovering the root causes. The event also featured the release of reprints of Rajabala Das’s autobiography and its English translation, with a distinguished panel of dignitaries on the dais. The welcome addresses acknowledged Rajabala Das’s pivotal role in women’s education, and the event concluded with a vote of thanks expressing gratitude for the impactful gathering.