From time immemorial, women have always proved themselves in every field possible. There is no doubt of the immense potential and talent women possess. With Tokyo Olympics round the corner, this week’s news brings to you the historic ‘ gender-balanced Olympics’ as claimed by the authorities, grants permission to 147 women SSC officers by the Army, a Netflix documentary series of Naomi Osaka, and the recruitment of three women in Mars Wrigley team. Research shows women’s interest in the Olympic games has increased as 45% of women in the world’s largest economies have shown interest in the Games. Without further ado, let’s take a look at this week’s top stories.
1. Tokyo Olympics are being seen as a marker for ‘gender equality’
As claimed by the International Olympic Committee, the Tokyo Olympics is being seen as a landmark for a ‘gender balanced’ game as 48.8% of competitors are set to be women. Considering the track record of the games, this is an increase from 45% at the 2016 Rio Games and 44.2% at London in 2012. New varieties of events are open for women to participate that were before only restricted to men. Women are set to participate in 300 events, including 1500m freestyle. Women are set to compete against men in new sports at events like skateboarding. All countries are encouraged to send both male and female athletes and are also advised that both male and female athletes should represent the country flag.
2. India is set to send 228 Strong Contingent, 119 athletes including 67 male and 52 females for the Tokyo Olympics
In Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Virtual Interaction with Olympic athletes, IOA (Indian Olympic Association) President Narinder Batra mentioned that India will be sending a 228 strong contingent. Keeping in mind the gender-balanced games, the contingent will have 119 athletes, including 52 female athletes and 67 male athletes.
3. Bhavani Devi qualified for Tokyo Olympics 2020
From being the first Indian fencer to qualify for the Olympics to nearly quitting the sport because of lack of resources in India, Devi’s story is the one to inspire. Her best ranking ever is 36 which she achieved in 2017, and a silver medal in the 2017 world cup marks her biggest achievement. Devi currently trains with Nicola Zanotti in Italy. Bhavani will start her campaign on July 28 and is aiming for the gold medal.
4. Army grants permanent commission to 147 Women SSC Officers
As per the revised parameters set by the Supreme Court in March, a total of 147 additional women SSC (short service commission) officers were granted permanent commissions. The supreme court deemed the Army evaluation criteria for granting commissions as systematically discriminating against the women officers. The Defence Ministry said the women officers would undergo training and military assignments to empower them for a higher leadership role in Army.
5. Naomi Osaka Docuseries premiers on Netflix
‘Naomi Osaka’, a three-part documentary series debuted on Netflix on July 16. It reflects upon the athlete’s challenges faced in the sports world and navigating her path amidst the struggles and the rising stardom. Directed by Garrett Bradley, the series reflects upon the 23-year-old tennis player’s journey, mental issues, the pressure, sacrifices, and her way to self-discovery in the world of sports. The series is not one of those sappy stories that end on a sad note rather this is the series that takes charge. Naomi takes charge of her course and the series ends abruptly as the player is still in the running field and has a lot to achieve in the upcoming time. The three episodes inspire you, challenge you, and motivate you to take charge of the course of your life.
6. Mars Wrigley appoints 3 women to the team taking the gender diversity ratio to the top
The confectionary and treats major, Mars Wrigley India recruit three women in their leadership program in the past month. They are Shahine Ardeshir, director – people and organization, Richa Singh, chief financial officer, and Sunita Patnaik, director – corporate affairs. This takes their company’s gender diversity to 40% from zero