PASIGHAT, Feb 11: Dr. Menuka Kadu, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Social Work at Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Overall Best Presentation Award’ at the 9th International Conference on The Future of Women (FOW 2026). 
The event, held from February 9–10, in Bali, Indonesia, brought together over 1,200 participants from 50 countries to discuss "Feminist Perspectives in GLocal Contexts."
Dr. Kadu’s award-winning research, titled “Silenced Bodies, Formed Identities: Tribal Girls’ Menstrual Experiences in Northeast India,” was selected for its methodological rigor and significant contribution to feminist scholarship. 
Her study utilizes qualitative narratives from the Galo, Adi, and Idu Mishmi communities to examine how menstrual stigma and taboos shape the gender socialization and identities of young tribal women in Arunachal Pradesh.
“This achievement highlights India’s growing presence in international gender research,” the conference organizers stated. “Dr. Kadu’s work stands out for its ethical depth and its focus on grounded, community-centered scholarship within global feminist discourse.”
Representing Northeast India as the sole presenter from the region, Dr. Kadu’s participation placed regional perspectives alongside insights from world-renowned scholars. Distinguished attendees included Prof. Bettina Aptheker (University of California, Santa Cruz), Prof. Wendy Martin (Claremont Graduate University), and Prof. Wening Udasmoro (Universitas Gadjah Mada).
The conference was organized by the International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM). It featured keynote speeches and workshops addressing critical global issues, including gender-based violence, economic justice, and women’s leadership. Dr. Kadu’s recognition underscores the importance of documenting indigenous experiences to better understand and challenge the everyday practices of restriction and exclusion faced by adolescent girls.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
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