Islamabad:All is set to observe the International Women’s Day today (Monday) across the country with major civil society organisations coming up with big shows.

The world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8 to use the opportunity to acknowledge women’s success and contribution to the workplaces and to society. Now an official holiday in over 14 countries of the world, it is a day to honour and cherish women and womanhood. Interestingly, the year 2010 marks the 101st anniversary of the International Women’s Day according to historical facts.

According to United Nations, “Equal rights, equal opportunities: Progress for all” is the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD). The event is observed in most countries around the world on March 8.

It is a day when women are recognised for their achievements without regard to divisions, whether national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political. Furthermore, it is an occasion for looking back on past struggles and accomplishments and more importantly, for looking ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that await future generations of women.

It was in 1975, during International Women’s Year, the United Nations began celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8.

Two years later, in December 1977, the General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a United Nations Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace to be observed on any day of the year by member states, in accordance with their historical and national traditions.The news