The Hindu Business Line : Bringing up feminism

Two recent news items must have gladdened the hearts of feminists. The first is the findings of a study by an American non-profit organisation, Catalyst Inc, on how a greater representation of women on corporate boards improves financial performance. The three parameters on which Fortune 500 companies were judged were returns on equity, sales and invested capital. Those corporations with at least three women directors had notably stronger financial performance. These find ings were endorsed in an independent review by Fox Hollow Technologies Inc, indicating that the manner in which a woman approaches a problem and offers a solution enhances the quality of decision-making, improving end results.

The second relates to a panel discussion on ‘Women and global leadership’ organised as part of the Incredible India@60 event hosted in New York by the Confederation of Indian Industry, several ministries and Yale University. The distinguished panellists, while rightly applauding the progress achieved on the gender front in India, also drew attention to challenges such as maternal mortality, female infanticide and poverty. But the fact that a global meet of this kind was conceived as part of the Incredible India celebrations itself is indicative of the change in mindset. However, it will surprise many to find out how even four decades ago girls made inroads into areas that were considered male bastions — district administration. These women were part of a silent revolution to bring about acceptance of gender parity. The freedom to express one’s opinion without fear or favour, and the fair and equitable opportunity it offered prompted many girls to opt for a career in civil service. In the first two decades after Independence, the concept of welfare State and public administration held out promising opportunities for those who wanted to be part of the development process and contribute to nation-building activities.

While the Indian Administrative Service had a glamour of its own, equally attractive were the Central Services, as they were called. These services comprised financial and accounting disciplines, providing good scope for girls to display their potential. The duties and responsibilities of the various positions called for administrative acumen, financial skills, and human resource management. Sincerity, commitment, dedication and hard work drew accolades and admiration. Though there was some patronising attitude in the beginning from the seniors, over the years there was a gradual change and the lady officers were accepted as equals.

These officers knew the value of the dictum ‘knowledge is power’ and consequently, earned the respect of subordinates. Fairness and objectivity were considered the hallmarks of the lady officers, and their adherence to discipline well known. The women were recognised for their professional approach and decision-making capabilities. By and large the atmosphere for lady officers was congenial and conducive.

The fact that many lady officers could reach the topmost positions is indeed a glowing tribute to the fairness of the Indian bureaucratic system. The parents of many of these officers belonged to an earlier generation; but imbued with the spirit and fervour of the struggle for independence, swept by the movements for social upliftment of women and attracted by the educational vistas that opened up, these parents had encouraged their daughters to take up careers in civil service not only to attain their fullest potential but also to carve a niche for themselves in the development history of the country. The nation should remember and salute these enlightened citizens of yore with gratitude for they are the real torchbearers of feminist movement!