Beacon of hope in the skewed landscape of Haryana

Haryana is paradoxically known for both a strong patriarchal society and its emerging female athletes who defy societal bias. With a sex ratio of 926 females for every 1,000 males, the state exemplifies the deeply entrenched gender bias that plagues many parts of India.

Yet, it is from this very state that Manu Bhaker, a prodigious young shooter, has risen to national and international prominence.

In a country that boasts a population upward of 140 crores, Manu Bhaker’s achievements – two medals in one Olympics edition – offer a stark contrast to the systemic sidelining of women, making her a symbol of resilience and hope. Haryana's skewed sex ratio reflects a broader societal issue that has long marginalised women.

The preference for male children, coupled with practices like female infanticide and neglect of girl children, has resulted in the significant gender imbalance. This disparity is not merely a statistic but a grim reality that manifests in the daily lives of countless women and girls, who often face limited opportunities and systemic discrimination.

In the face of such adversity, Manu Bhaker’s story is one of remarkable triumph. Born in the small village of Goria in Jhajjar district, Bhaker was introduced to shooting at the age of 14.

Within a short span, she made headlines by winning gold medals at prestigious competitions, including the ISSF World Cup and the Commonwealth Games. Her success is not just a personal victory but a powerful statement against the societal norms that seek to confine women to traditional roles.

Manu Bhaker’s rise to fame is emblematic of the potential that lies untapped in many young girls across India. Her achievements highlight the importance of providing equal opportunities and support to women in sports and other fields. Bhaker’s story is a testament to what can be achieved when talent is nurtured, irrespective of gender.

Her success challenges the deep-seated biases and inspires a new generation of girls to dream beyond societal limitations. Sports have long been a potent tool for social change, and Bhaker’s journey underscores this potential.

By excelling in a male-dominated field, she has not only brought laurels to the country but also spotlighted the importance of gender equality.

Her victories serve as a reminder that talent knows no gender, and that given the right support and opportunities, women can excel in any arena. Manu Bhaker’s success has broader implications for the fight against gender discrimination in India.

It calls for a re-evaluation of societal attitudes towards women and girls, and a commitment to creating an environment where they can thrive. This includes addressing the root causes of gender disparity, such as education, healthcare and economic opportunities for women.

To truly honour the spirit of Manu Bhaker’s achievements, it is imperative that both the government and society take concrete steps towards gender equality. This includes implementing policies that promote female participation in sports, ensuring equal access to resources and challenging the cultural norms that perpetuate gender biases.

Additionally, celebrating and amplifying the stories of women like Bhaker can inspire others and foster a culture of empowerment.

As India continues to bask in the glory that Manu Bhaker has brought upon it, her story should inspire a collective commitment to dismantling the barriers that hold women back and to building a society where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality