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DHAKA, Feb 12, 2025 (BSS) - Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid today said women were at the forefront of both in  1971 Liberation War and the July 2024 Revolution, but over time, their achievements are often erased from the history.

“Women have always stood alongside men in times of struggle and crisis. The sacrifices and contributions of the women embraced martyrdom or got injured in the July Uprising must be preserved in the foundation of the new Bangladesh. We will not let women be erased from history again,” she said.  

The adviser was addressing an award giving ceremony titled ‘Indomitable Women Award 2024’, organised by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs in collaboration with the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner's Office at    Bangladesh Shishu Academy auditorium today.  

Five women from the Dhaka division were honoured with the "Indomitable Women Award 2024" in recognition of their resilience, achievements, and contributions to society.

Highlighting the economic contributions of women, the advisor said, “The backbone of our country’s economy is the garment industry, which is sustained by the labour and resilience of thousands of women. Similarly, the presence, hard work, and contributions of women are often forgotten in the agriculture sector too which considered as a vital economic pillar.”

She stressed that the historical disregard for women’s achievements has led to their marginalization, but their struggles and victories must be acknowledged. “Every woman faces struggles in life, and overcoming them is a remarkable achievement,” she said.

“Those who have demonstrated extraordinary courage, determination, and resilience are not just recipients of an award but shining stars of our society. This recognition carries that message,” she said.

The awards were distributed in five categories.

Swapna Rani Ghosh from Rajbari was recognised in the Economic Empowerment category, Masuda Akhter from Narayanganj in the Excellence in Education and Employment category, Selina Majid from Kishoreganj received the award in the Successful Mother category, Lipi Begum from Faridpur was recognised as a Survivor Who Overcame Violence, and Samartaban from Faridpur was awarded for her Outstanding Contribution to Social Development.

Chaired by Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Sharaf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, it was also addressed among others by senior secretary to the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs Momtaz Ahmed NDC, director general of the Department of Women Affairs Keya Khan and additional divisional commissioner (development) Raja Muhammad Abdul Hai.