It was exhilarating to read the Comment page (21st March) on Indian women's progress, especially about the outstanding achievements of women in the field of aerospace industry. It was well researched and assimilated work. Even in UK, only few percent of females follow courses in such fields. In the decade following independence, people's attitude towards women revolutionised.
Most girls from my community, including myself attained degree courses with the encouragement and support from fathers, brothers and even male members of extended family. Some followed careers in medicine, accountancy and education. Communities realised the importance of treating daughters and sons equally. Now Indian women hold high positions in many sectors.
Last week three young women with great initiative,art and expertise made to final of the Master Chef India. Apparently the social changes did not extend across the country.Indian Women are ingrained to have tolerance and family values from the childhood, so that they can withstand hardships and keep the family together before and after marriage. However, they will stand up with all might against any wrong.
Queen of Jhansi fought the British empire. Indira Gandhi was one of the two earliest female prime ministers in the world, She took unprecedented step of military take over of East Pakistan and declared it an independent country to overcome the consequences of the dispute between East and West Pakistan. It was Indian women who came out in the streets in their thousands against horrific rape of Nirbhaya.
India stands 94th in the rape statistic but every attempt must be made to stop such crimes. The mindset of some men need educated. Alcohol and drugs must be restricted. It was heart warming when Shree C B called an young Asian woman candidate for GE on the stage and introduced her as Nari Shakti at the end of the event, held in the memory of Mahatma Gandh at K.P.hall. A small gesture but a huge support.
Ila Kapadia
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