Ms. Sreelekha said the programme would bringing together 6,000 girls from various schools to exhibit their talent and send across the message that they were safe. Once people got to know about the display and the number of girls learning karate, they would think twice before harassing them. It had helped bring about a change in women’s lack of interest in learning martial arts, and had inspired other girls to take up such training. In the 2017-18 academic year, it was extended to 130 government and aided schools, and 7,000 girls were being trained. The training was given by karate trainers recognised by the sports council or the Karate Association of India after an interview.

Source: The Hindu March 03, 2018 13:41 UTC