President Pranab Mukherjee has said that women do not lag behind when given the opportunity to whatever it might be. Speaking at the Centenary celebrations of the Indian Women's Association, he said that the association has crossed a milestone because of the contribution of women were harbingers of many a positive development in the society.But recent developments have not been palatable to the society.<br/>'<br/>The President said that it will be a long walk to achieve gender equality at all levels including political representation as the representation of women in the lok sabha was 11.3 percent when the global average was 22.1 percent. The President expressed happiness on the role of women in the defence forces. <br/>'<br/><br/>One such person is Krishnammal Jagannathan, who alongwih her husband was an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi and Vinobha bhave took to work for the social upliftment of women from all sections of society especially in rural areas.Though she is 83 years old, she still continues to strive for the deprived and neglected lot. The couple have won Padmashri and many other awards for their contribution. <br/>'<br/>'<br/>Smt.Jagannathan was given the centenary award by President Pranab Mukhejee. The other dignitary who received the award was PadmaShri Dr.V.Santha who was the brain behind the successful functioning of the Adyar Cancer Treatment and research Centre. President Dr. Pranab Mukherjee gave the awards at the function held inside the sprawling Theosophical Campus at Chennai. <br/><br/><br/>