Women are fundamental agents of change. Empowering women through education and employment transforms society.

Village schemes administered by women have a high rate of success. Although dowry, marital violence, female infanticide and other crimes against women are illegal, the law alone cannot end them. It needs strong public opinion and social support to create a climate of confidence and security. A strengthened and well supported NGO sector would be especially effective in this arena. I am for greater representation for women in Parliament but not for tokenism where female relatives are put up to fill the space without actually themselves participating. The way out is for political parties to provide greater opportunities and encouragement to women members.