Sano Vamuzo, a prominent figure in Nagaland’s social work and women’s empowerment, received the esteemed Padma Shri Award from President Droupadi Murmu at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on 9 May 2024. The award acknowledges Vamuzo’s decades-long dedication to social work and her impact on the community.
Vamuzo, a co-founder of the Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) and former chairperson of the Nagaland Women Commission, has been a driving force in tackling crucial issues such as women’s rights, substance abuse, education, health, economic exploitation, and deforestation. Her commitment to uplifting society has garnered her widespread respect and admiration.
The Office of the President of India praised Vamuzo as a social worker and educationist who has significantly contributed to the community. Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio expressed pride in Vamuzo’s achievement, calling it a proud moment for the citizens of Nagaland.
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The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) also congratulated Vamuzo, recognising her exceptional contribution to social service and inspiring leadership.
Vamuzo’s journey started as an educator, serving in various roles in schools and colleges across Kohima. She established and led the Mission English School as Headmistress from 1967 to 1971.
However, the founding of the NMA in 1983 marked a significant turning point in her career, as she and other concerned mothers united under the motto “Human Integrity” to combat social evils and elevate the status of women.
The NMA’s impactful work earned them the Navjyoti Award from the Delhi Police Foundation for outstanding achievements in social services, particularly for youth. Vamuzo also served two consecutive terms as the first chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women from 2007 to 2013.
The Padma Awards 2024, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs, included 2 Padma Vibhushan, 9 Padma Bhushan, and 56 Padma Shri Awards. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries such as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
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Following the ceremony, the awardees were honoured at a dinner hosted by Amit Shah and are scheduled to pay homage at the National War Memorial and visit significant landmarks in New Delhi.
Sano Vamuzo’s Padma Shri Award highlights her unwavering commitment to social change and the collective efforts of the organisations she has been a part of.
Her legacy as a social worker and educationist continues to inspire future generations to work towards a more equitable and empowered society in Nagaland and beyond.
