Bravery, self-confidence and ambition are some of the qualities that parents should instill in their daughters, according to successful women from the region.

These women also called for education for men of all ages and the creation of a safe society for all.

Speaking on the occasion of International Daughters’ Day, these women argued that all citizens, in addition to expressing love, gratitude and appreciation for their daughters, must also play an active role in creating a safe and dignified space for all women.

“Our women are undoubtedly getting stronger day by day. But now it is time that men are educated to make our society safer,” said Dr. Jyoti Hindi, when asked what parents should do for their daughters.

Dr Jyoti said her family was proud of having confident and determined women.

“For my daughter, I am an example of a strong woman, both at home and at work, so that she can learn to face challenges with confidence,” added Dr. Jyoti.

Madhavi Kataria, an IAS officer and former Director (Social Security and Child Development) in Punjab, encouraged parents to try to tone down the patriarchal approach in dealing with their sons and daughters.

“On this day, parents should reorient themselves against patriarchy and nurture an attitude of equality and fairness between their sons and daughters. It is the parents who should create a non-discriminatory environment in their minds and hearts. This could be just enough for girls to flourish,” Kataria said.

Dr. Shalina Mehta, a social anthropologist, said, “Let them be themselves, don’t restrict their inner voice.”

Deputy Commissioner Pallavi urged parents to encourage their daughters to compete with their male peers, at local and global levels.

“Instead of trying to fulfill our own dreams through our daughters, we should identify and nurture their talent,” the DC said.

Government officials should treat the area under their jurisdiction as an extended family and implement government policies for women’s welfare in letter and spirit, she added.

Police inspector Gurpreet Kaur said it was her parents’ persistent motivation that made her choose a profession rarely chosen by women.

“I used to work as a teacher. However, I wanted to work towards protecting the rights of women and the elderly. When my parents came to know about my ambition, they not only motivated me to appear for police exams, they also rearranged their daily tasks to facilitate my preparations,” Kaur added.