NEW DELHI: Like in all other walks of life, women folks are increasingly catching up with men in media profession as well. In fact, it can be safely said that the fairer sex dominates media whether it be print, television channels, radio, and websites.

Addressing a panel discussion on ‘Sharing Experiences by Women in Media‘, organised by Ficci Ladies Organisation (FLO), NDTV Editorial Director Sonia Singh said almost 80 per cent of the workforce in her channel comprises women.

"In media, the divide is not between the two genders but between a parent and non-parent. The issue that comes to the fore is that a woman who has the responsibility of a child needs to maintain a balance between her home and office which can be challenging as the working hours in the media are erratic," Singh said.

Hindustan Times Editor HT City Sonal Kalra pointed out that there is only one male reporter in her team of 43 members which in itself explains how successful women are in media.

But the most vulnerable are the young girls who enter the profession as it looks glamorous from outside, and such myths and preconceived notions need to be dispelled. The young ladies must be groomed professionally and must be backed by the support and confidence of their superiors and the company.

Fortune India Senior Assistant Editor Sobha Menon said, "Behind the success of women a huge role is played by her family and husband. Women entrepreneurs are gaining ground in the media but they are dependent on family support to excel in the professional arena."

The discussion was moderated by Delhi Times senior editor and editor of the Times of India‘s Supplements in North India Anshul Chaturvedi, who said that in media a hierarchy is followed which is influence, visibility and money. It is seen that in the media women perform far better but their careers take a backseat in a family situation where they at times sacrifice their jobs for a male member of the family or for abiding by the decisions of the family.

FLO president Kavitha Varadaraj stated, "According to a report, at leadership positions women in media earn $20,000 more than their male counterparts and have so far performed better than the opposite sex."

Today the prominent media houses have women at the highest editorial positions and are the decision makers.

FLO Member & Garuda Advertising CMD Shilpi Arora emphasised that the mindset of the society needs to change with respect to women, and women must change their thought process which at times fosters narrow thinking.