Do we need more women in military combat roles?

YES Women can handle difficult situations

I think there should be more women in military combat roles considering the endurance and patience they have. During stressful times, women have been found to make intelligent and sound decisions compared to men. Also, they are more fit and agile now. So, their presence in combat roles can definitely give an edge and increase the efficiency of the armed forces. Aakash Kumar, Delhi

YES It’s a strong message of equality

Bringing more women into on- field combat would send a strong social message that equality is eternity. Men and women together should overcome life- threatening challenges, inculcating a sense of mutual respect and understanding. By doing that, women would also be liberated. These women as mothers would be able to train their children to be disciplined, courageous and patriotic, strengthening the nation. Supratik Sil Roy, Kolkata

YES Encouragement is the way forward

We talk about women representation in Parliament through reservation then why should we debar women from joining the army? The figures show that an increasing number of women are participating in army parades and acquiring NCC ‘ C’ certificates. They should be given a chance to step up and join the forces. If a woman can become the defence minister then why can’t she be seen in combat roles in the army? Anand Rawat, Dehradun

YES Break all stereotypes

Women have been victims for centuries. They have always been considered weak. But things have changed and so has the perception that women always need to be protected. The world has shifted from the physicality of yesterday to a mind- body of civilised norms. Women who constitute almost half the population have a definite place in the defence services. They are breaking the glass ceiling and venturing into male- dominated fields, and are becoming pilots, navigators, intelligence officers, scientists, communication and logistics specialists. Brig Mohan Chandran Kunnath ( Retd), Bengaluru