The Hindu Business Line : `Good governance integrally connected to gender equality'

Chennai, March 24 Education removes almost all barriers in the career path of a woman. If the mind is properly applied, it helps in breaking down mental barriers. "Education creates a well-informed mind that is capable of thinking, evaluating, judging, prioritising and acting in a rational manner, without superstitions and fear," said Ms Indira Bhargava, Chairperson, Central Board of Direct Taxes.

Addressing a packed hall at the Women Managers' Convention 2007, organised by the Madras Management Association here on Saturday, she said one must work hard and develop professional skills.

Emphasising the need to change with the time, she said, "Stagnation is suicidal. Technology is turning our world upside down, and we have to change with the time. So, be open to new ideas, be level-headed and be ready to accept and adapt to change."

Workplace harassment

Speaking about policy making, she said some progress has been made by the Bill entitled `The Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment at Workplace 2007'. The recent Budget has allocated Rs 8,795 crore for 100 per cent women-specific programmes and Rs 22 crore for schemes where at least 30 per cent goes into women-specific programmes. "Much has been done, but much more needs to be done," she remarked.

Citing Scandinavian countries as a good example for gender equality and women's empowerment, Ms Bhargava said the struggle for good governance is integrally connected with the struggle for gender equality and women's empowerment. The human development index of the Scandinavian countries and their excellent record of good governance has been acknowledged worldwide.

Subtle hurdles

Earlier, addressing the inaugural session, Ms Kavitha Dutt Chitturi, Chairperson, MMA Women Managers' Forum and Executive Director, KCP Ltd, said women today have made rapid advances in every conceivable field. "More and more women have taken the career path and are redefining the image of a woman," she said, pointed out, adding, "Yet, there seems to be a glass ceiling, a level above which women do not rise."

Though subtle, and in a way sophisticated, hurdles hinder a woman's progress at every stage.

"Constant reminders are placed in her path that say she is a woman."

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