As part of its International Women’s Day celebrations, the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), conducted a one-day workshop  on the theme Women Innovators in Growth of Science —WINGS ’14.

Dr V Shanta, chairperson, Cancer Institute, delivering the keynote address, said that women should aspire to be leaders and inspire the current generation that nothing is impossible for them to achieve.

Dr Avinash Chander, secretary, Department of Defence, DRDO, in his speech said that the role of women is changing from that of a home-maker to that of a nation builder and that science is one field that  helps impart  gender equality.

He also acknowledged the efforts of senior women scientists in defence missile and guidance programmes.

Following the inaugural session, there was a technical talk on safety management and a panel discussion on integration of women in decision-making.

The conference was attended by several women scientists among others in the DRDO.

Also, a panel discussion on how to harness the talent of women scientists and maintain gender balance in decision making, was conducted.

Besides, an infotainment session and a cycle rally highlighting the significance of CRVDE with live demonstrations of its various products, was conducted.

As a closing highlight of the day, cultural programmes by Kalakshetra were organised.

The workshop aimed  at bringing together powerful women leaders in science, technology and management, dedicated in their respective spheres.

The event format featured technical and powerful presentations intended to inspire profound discussions, enabling participants to transform ideas into creative solutions.

source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Cities> Chennai / by Express News Service – Chennai / March 12th, 2014