Topic: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure
3. India has set itself in the right direction of principle of gender equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution by allowing permanent commissioning of women in the armed forces. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate.
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
Recently, Defence Minister said that it is justifiable to discuss the role of women in the armed forces and stated the historic examples of Rani Lakshmi bai and Indira Gandhi and their role to defend India in Shanghai Co operation meet.
Key Demand of the question:
To discuss the role of women in National defence as part of the armed forces.
Directive word:
Comment- here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the constitutional ideal of promoting equality and women empowerment.
Body:
Mention about the untapped potential of women to be leaders in the armed forces until recently and the right move of the government to allow permanent commissioning of women. Next, highlight the twin nature of women as both nurturer/ caregiver as well as a protector. These instincts and by nature with women and has been historically proven by the leaders such as Rani Lakshmi Bai.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that gender cannot be base to discriminate woman in the field of armed forces and that the recent move is a step in the right direction.
