Dear Friends,

March 8th  -  International Women's Day (IWD) around the world marks a celebration of the economic, social, cultural and political achievements for women.

The first IWD was held on 19 March 1911 in Germany, Austria, Denmark and further European countries. German women selected this date because in 1848  the Prussian king had promised the vote for women. Subsequently over one million leaflets calling for action on the right to vote were distributed throughout Germany before IWD in 1911. Now IWD is always celebrated on 8 March and is an occasion marked by women's groups around the world. This date is also commemorated at the United Nations and is designated in many countries as a national holiday. Women in every country, often divided by  ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic and political differences, come together to celebrate this important date that represents equality, justice, peace and development.

But what does International Women’s Day mean to each of us – men and women? Have we progressed from our narrow thinking and has the biased attitude of society towards women changed in any way? The recent report of the rape victim Aruna Shanbaug is just one of the many atrocities that are taking place every day, every minute and every second in today’s disastrous world. Are we opposing the injustice to women or are just being silent spectators? Every woman in this world belongs to some one – she is somebody’s mother or sister or daughter or aunt or niece – Yes she is still a Woman created out of man’s rib. The first expression of love was when Adam received his wife Eve and said “ This is a bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh – the mother of all men” Without a woman, none of us would be born today in this world. Gladson Almeida in his nostalgic random thoughts on International Women’s day has shared some true facts and feelings about the position of a Woman in today’s world.

International Women's Day is a time to reflect for each one of us on whether this day, year after year means something to each one of us and how we can contribute in helping the womenfolk empower themselves to be stronger women. It is definitely a day to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of women's rights.

Women Vision brings to you an “Iron Lady” from the Sultanate of Oman  Mebal Pinto, General Manager of the leading travel agency in Oman – Marmul Travel and Tours. Having joined as the Financial Controller of the organization, ever since its inception, she rose to be the General Manager which speaks of her ability to foresee the dynamic potential of the growing travel industry and her passion to understand the demand of the travellers.

She is considered as one of the most competent and successful Managers in the travel industry. today.
“It was neither my dream or ambition to reach this position but it was sheer dint of my hard work, my positive and daring spirit  and using my God given talents that I have achieved the success and position I am in today” says Mabel beaming with confidence and courage.

She is proud to belong to the category of successful married women, who are able to shine today not only due to their efforts but also the unstinted cooperation of their husbands and family both at the professional and personal levels. A congenial family atmosphere is very essential for both the husband and wife to enable them to execute their duties and responsibilities efficiently and effectively. It is not alone the financial aspect that one should aspire in life but also consider what could be their contribution to the family and society.

Hailing from the Belvai parish in Moodbidri varado, Mebal is married to Alwyn Pinto and has been blessed wi