Recently, International Women's Day gained widespread recognition and celebration across social media platform, however, it is crucial to reflect on the state of women's rights and gender equality on the ground, both in India and globally. Despite moments of progress and celebration, there remain stark reminders of the work that still needs to be done.

In India, often celebrated for its strides in development, the reality for women can be markedly different. While achievements like Chandrayaan-3's successful lunar landing and the inauguration of a new Parliament are highlighted, critical issues often take a backseat.

The media frenzy surrounding a billionaire's son's wedding recently dominated headlines, eclipsing significant events such as the gang-rape of a Spanish vlogger in Jharkhand. This incident exposed the dark underbelly of gender violence in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger protections for women.

Even within the realm of sports, where athletes are revered, allegations of sexual abuse against female wrestlers and the subsequent mishandling by federations underscore systemic failures perpetuating gender inequality.

While the Women's Reservation Bill and various empowerment schemes seem promising on paper, their impact remains limited without tangible efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence and discrimination.

India's tourism slogan, "Incredible India," rings hollow when women continue to face unsafe environments and systemic barriers to full participation in society.

How long will it take for us to reach a stage where women are truly treated equal to men, and what collective efforts are required to dismantle barriers and challenge stereotypes?

The true measure of a nation's progress lies not just in its infrastructure or economic growth but in its commitment to ensuring the safety, dignity, and equal rights of all citizens, regardless of gender.

Let us not only celebrate women's achievements but also recommit ourselves to the fight for gender equality. It's time for Indian media and society to prioritize the safety and well-being of women over sensationalism and superficial distractions. Only then can we claim to be on the path towards true equality, where women are equal to men in every aspect of life.