I am extremely happy and humbled to be chosen for the award, along with several other women, who have achieved great heights. One among them is Laxmi Agarwal, an acid attack survivor. Laxmi is my idol and I admire the courage with which she has dealt with the horrible experience. 

Tell us about the challenges you’ve had to face. 

I lost my father when I was just 10. It was a huge struggle for my mother, sister and I. It was not just the male-dominated world, but also women who constantly reminded us that since we were women, our only duty was to get married and do household chores. But we had to beat all the odds. My mother Dr VS Krishnakumari, former Director, Children’s Hospital, Egmore, has been an inspiration for me. My sister has also gone on to become a doctor. 

Your advice for aspiring women officers?