Deserving candidate

Sir — This refers to the editorial, “More Ministers needed” (September 5). The Narenda Modi Government must be credited for giving the charge of defence portfolio to an outspoken leader like Nirmala Sitharaman. She is now the country’s second Minister for Defence after Indira Gandhi. It is a matter of great pride for Sitharaman and for all the women in the country. 

Sitharaman played a crucial role in Modi Government’s campaign for Start-up India, Make in India, the Goods and Services Tax and legalising traditional sport viz Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu etc, as a Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, with independent charge. 

The Government often talked about women empowerment but never allowed the 100 per cent reservation for women in Parliament or any such real reforms. The BJP Government’s cabinet reshuffle has broken the barrier of gender bias and elevated Sitharaman to the defence portfolio who is a deserving candidate and also a a leader of potential, who can hopefully serve well in terms of securing India from outside threats.