Should women be encouraged to take up sport as a career?

YES Beyond any debate Of course. Should this even be a debatable question in the 21st century? The list of influential women sportspersons is lengthening every day, and we are still stuck should women be encouraged. Is there any sport left in the world where women are yet to make a mark? I think not. Radhika Haralalka, Delhi YES It’s a sign of empowerment Women should certainly be encouraged to play sport and make that their profession. They should be given all the opportunities and resources that men in sports are given. The lack of infrastructure in our country keeps women from considering sport as a real career option, and that is what needs to be encouraged. Sanaah Chopra, Delhi YES It’s the way to go Women are making their mark in every field in the world, including sport. From Serena Williams to Jhulan Goswami, from Hope Solo to Geeta Phogat, women are breaking all records and barriers. Then why shouldn’t we encourage our women to pursue sport a career, and to make it as viable as a 9 to 5 job? Indrakshi Saha, Kolkata YES An excellent form of exercise Apart from being a good career, playing sport also helps women in maintaining their mental and physical health. It helps in building self-esteem and confidence and deals with issues such as depression, stress, anxiety and nervousness. Besides these, it helps inculcate team spirit and a never-say-die attitude in the women, and prepares them to take on challenging assignments. Simran Kohli, Mumbai YES A game changer Sport is now a serious career option for women who love to play as there are better infrastructure and facilities available. With the government emphasising the need to encourage women pursue their passion and with a good number of training academies opening up, sports in fact can be a great field for women keen to make it their profession. That said, there are also international organisations who are actively working towards getting more women into sports and are heavily putting in funds and money. So, why should women shy away from making it their career. Rashmi Sharma, Gurgaon