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- “The relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law is frequently depicted in a negative light in society and popular culture,” said Rupinder Kaur Gill, Senior Vice-Chairperson of the Punjab State Women Commission, who graced the event as chief guest.
- Adding a special touch, a certificate of appreciation was awarded to 98-year-old Surjit Kaur, the eldest woman in the village, acknowledging her long life and presence as a pillar of wisdom.
- In a pioneering move to foster family harmony and challenge longstanding stereotypes, the panchayat of Balloh village in Punjab’s Bathinda district today conferred the “Best Mother-in-Law Award” on six elderly women.
In a pioneering move to foster family harmony and challenge longstanding stereotypes, the panchayat of Balloh village in Punjab’s Bathinda district today conferred the “Best Mother-in-Law Award” on six elderly women. This initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in the state, was held as part of celebrations marking International Women’s Day.
The awards recognised senior women who have cultivated warm, supportive relationships with their daughters-in-law, transforming the often-misunderstood dynamic into one resembling that of a mother and daughter. Sarpanch Amarjit Kaur, who spearheaded the programme, explained that the goal was to highlight positive examples within families and encourage mutual respect and affection across generations.
“The relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law is frequently depicted in a negative light in society and popular culture,” said Rupinder Kaur Gill, Senior Vice-Chairperson of the Punjab State Women Commission, who graced the event as chief guest. “Yet these respected women from Balloh have demonstrated through their actions that understanding, love, and empathy can create truly harmonious bonds. They serve as inspiring role models for the entire community.”
The honourees—Gurdev Kaur, Jaswinder Kaur, Surjit Kaur, Charanjit Kaur, Mukhtiar Kaur, and Jaswinder Kaur—were chosen based on feedback gathered from ASHA workers and fellow villagers, who assessed their contributions to maintaining peaceful and loving household environments.
The ceremony also included other recognitions aimed at empowering rural women. Several villagers were felicitated for reading the highest number of books from the local library, including Jasjit Kaur, Amandeep Kaur, and Mintu Pal Kaur. This tribute sought to promote literacy and lifelong learning among women in the countryside.
Adding a special touch, a certificate of appreciation was awarded to 98-year-old Surjit Kaur, the eldest woman in the village, acknowledging her long life and presence as a pillar of wisdom.
Balloh village has earned a reputation for progressive and community-driven initiatives under its leadership. From promoting simple weddings to curbing tobacco sales and ensuring transparent use of public funds, the panchayat consistently takes steps to improve quality of life and set examples for rural Punjab.
Today’s event not only celebrated individual women but also underscored the power of grassroots efforts to reshape social norms, one family at a time. As Punjab—and India—continues to mark International Women’s Day, Balloh’s creative approach reminds us that change often begins at home.
