I am married to a surgeon. I was, however, active in social activities. I then contested and won the election becoming the first woman mayor of the City of Guntur. My being a woman has not presented any difficulties when dealing with the public or with other officials and I do not think I am facing any discrimination. There is, however, a slight strain in inter-personal relationships in my contacts with fellow political leaders especially men leaders.
Women have a strong representation in our local urban government.
Breaking the barriers I believe Indian tradition is one of the main factors preventing many women from entering public life. Other factors that restrict their active participation are corruption and criminalisation of politics. The main policy we have implemented aimed at increasing the participation of women in government was a mass literacy programme started one and a half years ago. Over that period, more than 22,000 women in the 15-35 age group have gone through the programme. Furthermore, we also have a loan system for needy women to obtain gainful employment.