Prez favours martial arts training to girls

Chennai, Nov 2 (UNI) Imparting training in martial arts like judo and karate for self-defence will make girls physically strong and build their confidence, President Prathiba Patil said today.

Delivering the 17th convocation address of the Mother Teresa Women's University here, she said women should be motivated to fight discrimination and march towards equal status.

''They should work determinedly for their own empowerment that would give them the confidence to face the challenges of life,'' the first citizen said.

''Self-defence is the best defence. Nowadays a large number of women are joining the police force. Those who needed protection earlier are now giving protection to others. It is a big change,'' she added.

Ms Patil said enlightened women were important for nation building since their thoughts and value systems would lead to the development of a good family, a good society and a good nation.

''Moreover, women can contribute greatly to build a compassionate world. Educated women can take the lead in building a compassionate society and a more tolerant world,'' she added.

UNI