Women in Jorhat District of Assam have taken up Martial Arts to equip themselves with self-defense skills.
13-year-old Prity Sarkar has been learning karate since January this year. She aims to become a police officer.Her parents are supportive of her martial arts training as it not only helps Prity remain physically fit but is also important for self-defense.
"I am learning martial arts for self defence. I also hope that I will be able to help other women through these skills," said Prity.
With an increase in various crimes against women, a large number of women in the region are taking interest in learning martial arts.
Ananiya Neog, a black belt holder in Karate works as an instructor in Jorhat. She has witnessed a rise in the number of students approaching her for training and currently trains 50-60 girls.
"Self defence is very important now-a-days. Women, now stay outside till late for work and hence, it's important for them to learn self defence skills. Moreover, karate as a career has a good scope now," said Ananiya.
The police also encourage women across the country to learn self-defence techniques.