The International Women’s Day was celebrated recently and indeed, March 8 is significant date all over the world as it honours women achievers and also inspires many others to make a mark in society. The theme for this year’s Women’s Day was ‘Accelerate Action’. It has become a trend now that on Women’s Day, men pamper the women in their life with special gifts. But are gifts all that women want. Arguably, given the way they are treated in the society since time immemorial, it is the gift of respect that women value the most. And so, I feel that the men and boys should take an oath of respecting all women they come across during their lifetime. And for the one’s close to you, do not shy away from showing your love and care. Mother Terresa had said, “A woman alone cannot change the world but she can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” So true! There is no field where women have not shown their grit and gumption, their tenacity and their readiness to do hard work and make sacrifices. If we empower a woman, we empower the entire society. What is needed is this realisation.

 

Did you know that a woman, Ada Lovelace, is considered to be the first computer programmer in world? Women, bestowed with powerful positions, are handling their responsibilities with brilliance, wisdom and taking crucial decisions with calculated precision. It is important to promote girl education and remove gender bias from all sections of society. A woman should be taught to believe in protecting herself on her own and not to depend on a man for her protection. Rest assured that she can pick up her own battles and come out valiant too.