Meghalaya is unique in the sense that no matter where the Meghalaya woman has gone, she has made a difference and has been able to script her success story — David Das, author of Trailblazers, Meghalaya

Shillong, March 8: As the world celebrated International Women’s Day today, Meghalaya had cause to pat itself on the back: for this is a state where a girl child is considered special, not a burden.

To mark the occasion, a book, Trailblazers, Meghalaya, which entered its second edition, was released here by Meghalaya State Commission for Women chairperson Theilin Phanbuh.

One of the women profiled by author David Das in this book is J.V. Basaiawmoit, an ophthalmologist. After retiring from government service, she was able to fully dedicate herself to the setting up of a 25-bedded eye hospital, Bansara Eye Care, in the city. Now, the hospital has branches in places like Sohra, Jowai and Nongstoin.

“We have also been serving in government-run primary health centres and community health centres, and we also undertake community work by reaching out to the people,” Basaiawmoit told this correspondent.

Another achiever is Daisy C. Momin from Tura in West Garo Hills, where her creativity in designing has earned her laurels. With no formal training, Momin went on to win the National Award for Excellence in Fashion Designing, which was conferred on her by NIFT, New Delhi in 1999, for having the ability to come up with natural fibre designs with a touch of tradition.

Trailblazers, Meghalaya contains profiles of women who have contributed in their chosen fields for the betterment of their community and society in Meghalaya.

According to the author, the book is a collection of conversations and interviews with women delving into the historical, social, political, economic issues and how the matrilineal system governs Meghalaya.

“Meghalaya is unique in the sense that no matter where the Meghalaya woman has gone, she has made a difference and has been able to script her success story,” Das said. He traversed the state to speak and photograph the women.