NEGATIVE propaganda by vested interests notwithstanding, ground realities indicate that more and more women are encouraged to shoulder responsibilities in the process of nation building because of the favourable policies adopted by the successive governments. Data shows a total of 1,090 inductions were made by the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) in the Central Superior Services during the past five years, out of which 410 were women. This is 40 percent of total inductions in civil services, which has increased significantly compared to women inductions three decades ago.
It is a matter of fact that women are excelling in almost all walks of life and contributing their share to the socio-economic development of the country. And this is understandable as they constitute about half of the population and the country cannot progress if such a large population remains inactive or dormant. Thanks to societal awareness, barring some pockets of population, families throughout Pakistan understand the significance of imparting education and skills to their daughters to empower them financially and economically. It is also known that girls shine in academic records at all levels and that is why they are also successfully competing not only in examinations of central and provincial civil services but also in autonomous organizations and private companies and corporations. A good number of women have representation from the Senate of Pakistan/National Assembly down to the union council level, playing their role in planning and decision making processes. A report predicts in the coming years, more women will be seen as ambassadors, secretaries and in superior offices of police and other civil services of Pakistan. There are, of course, some prejudices against female officers and staff in some departments but the determined efforts and resolve of the women-folk to fight back such prejudices will surely help improve the situation further.
