According to successful women in the region, courage, self-confidence and ambition are some of the qualities that parents should pass on to their daughters.
These women also demanded that men of all ages be educated and make society safe for all.
On the occasion of International Daughters Day, these women argued that all citizens should not only show love, gratitude and appreciation to their daughters, but also play an active role in creating a safe and dignified space for all women.
“No doubt our women are getting stronger day by day. But now it is time for men to be educated on how to make our society safer,” said Dr. Jyoti Hindi when asked what parents should do for their daughters.
Dr. Jyoti said her family prides itself on having confident and strong-willed women.
“I role model strong women for my daughter both at home and at work so that my daughter can learn to face challenges with confidence,” added Dr. Jyoti.
Madhavi Kataria, IAS officer and former Director (Social Security and Child Development), Punjab, encouraged parents to try to soften the patriarchal approach in dealing with their sons and daughters.
“On this day, parents must stand against patriarchy and promote a mindset of equality and equity between their sons and daughters. It is up to parents to create a discrimination-free environment in their minds and hearts. That could be enough for girls to thrive,” Kataria said.
Social anthropologist Dr. Shalina Mehta said, “Let them develop their own personality and do not suppress their inner voice.”
Deputy Commissioner Pallavi urged parents to encourage their daughters to compete with their male peers at the local and global level.
“Instead of trying to realize our own dreams through our daughters, we should recognize and encourage their talent,” the DC said.
Government officials should consider the area under their jurisdiction as an extended family and implement government policies for the benefit of women in letter and spirit, she added.
Police Inspector Gurpreet Kaur said that her parents’ continued encouragement made her choose a profession that is rarely pursued by women.
“I used to work as a lecturer. However, I wanted to work for the protection of the rights of women and the elderly. After my parents learned about my ambition, they not only motivated me to appear for police exams but also rearranged their daily tasks to make it easier for me to prepare,” Kaur added.
