‘Empower yourself’: Patricia Mukhim calls for bold female leadership at USTM seminar

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 24, 2025

“Nobody’s going to empower you. You have to empower yourself,” declared veteran journalist and editor of The Shillong Times, Patricia Mukhim, during a compelling keynote address at a two-day seminar on Women’s Leadership in Governance, hosted by the University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM).

Held on Friday and Saturday, the seminar gathered scholars, policymakers, researchers, and students from across the eight Northeast states and beyond. The event offered a critical platform to examine the systemic barriers, cultural narratives, and practical solutions surrounding women’s leadership in governance.

In her address, Mukhim aimed the myth of the Northeast’s so-called “queen culture,” calling it a romanticized façade that masks real struggles. “If women do not get into the lowest ground of the political system, how do we expect them to get into the Legislature or the District Council?” she asked. “While people tell us we are privileged, we do have domestic violence and suffer the pangs that other women suffer across India.”

She called for stronger policy interventions and a cultural shift to create a more inclusive and equitable democratic space. Closing on an encouraging note, she said, “Just be the best. I just want to see USTM grow from strength to strength despite all the challenges you face.”

Seminar Coordinator Dr Himashree Patowary opened the event, which featured over 60 research papers addressing themes like women’s roles in local governance, gender budgeting, tribal leadership, and political representation.

Guest of Honour Prof. Sambit Mallick offered a deep dive into the theoretical frameworks of gender mainstreaming and governance reform, emphasizing the need for context-specific interventions.

The seminar concluded with a thoughtful valedictory session, spotlighting shared experiences, policy insights, and academic reflections. More than just discussion, the event signalled a strong move toward dismantling gender disparity in governance—starting with Northeast.