With her children gone, Purnima went to work in Calcutta to wash dishes in a hotel.

BBC: Purnima

"She told me that 'I have no daughter, give me one of yours', " Purnima said.

BBC: Purnima

Purnima Tanuku, of the National Day Nurseries Association, urged the government "to make sure that there are sufficient support mechanisms in place to help weaker settings get better".

BBC: Nurseries and childminders to face tougher inspections

One of them is shy, reticent bank employee Purnima Choksey, 25, who will proudly tell you of her impending television debut -- on a women's talk show about extramarital relationships.

CNN: Tuned In To Hip

National Day Nurseries Association chief executive Purnima Tanuku welcomed the commitment made by the government to improve childcare but said the "quality of childcare and early education must not be sacrificed".

BBC: Nursery ratios raised 'to improve standards'