Gender Disparities in Indian Society

Overview of Gender-Based Stratification

Gender-based stratification in India manifests as unequal access to resources, opportunities, and rights between women and men. This disparity largely stems from the patriarchal structure of society, which assigns distinct roles based on gender. Men are often viewed as the primary earners, while women are expected to manage household responsibilities.

Demographic Indicators

The sex ratio in India was recorded at 940 females per 1,000 males according to the 2011 Census, a decline from 972 in 1901. The child sex ratio for ages 0-6 years was 919 females per 1,000 males in 2011. Life expectancy estimates for 2018-2022 indicate that women live an average of 69.6 years, while men live 67.7 years. The overall literacy rate stood at 74.04% in 2011, with female literacy at 65.46% and male literacy at 82.14%.

Economic Participation

The workforce participation rate for women was 23.3% compared to 75.0% for men in 2018-19. Women earn approximately 60-70% of what men earn for equivalent work. The agricultural sector employs about 70% of the female workforce, reflecting gender disparity in economic participation.

Education Disparities

The Gender Parity Index (GPI) for primary education is 1.0, indicating equal enrollment, while secondary education shows a GPI of 0.94. Girls, particularly in rural areas, face higher dropout rates. Female enrollment in higher education reached 50% in the 2019-20 academic year.

Health Disparities

The maternal mortality rate was 113 per 100,000 live births from 2016-2018. Women encounter various barriers to accessing healthcare services, especially in rural locales. There is a higher prevalence of undernutrition among women and girls, exacerbating health disparities.

Political Representation

Women constituted approximately 14% of the Lok Sabha and 11% of the Rajya Sabha as of 2021. The 73rd and 74th Amendments ensure 50% reservation for women in local governance through Panchayati Raj Institutions.

Violence and Safety

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there were 405,000 reported cases of crimes against women in 2020. Approximately 30% of women experience domestic violence, as indicated by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) from 2019-2021. One in three women report experiencing sexual harassment in public spaces.

Cultural and Social Norms

The patriarchal structure dominates family and societal dynamics, often privileging male authority. The dowry system persists as a cultural practice, contributing to gender discrimination. There is a notable cultural preference for male children, leading to issues such as female foeticide and infanticide.

Legislative Framework

The Constitution of India provides several provisions aimed at gender equality. Article 14 guarantees the right to equality, while Article 15 prohibits discrimination. Key laws include the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005, and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act of 2013.

Government Schemes and Initiatives

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme was launched in 2015 to combat the declining child sex ratio and promote girls’ education. Mahila E-Haat serves as an online platform for women entrepreneurs. The National Policy for the Empowerment of Women aims to encourage gender equality and empower women across various sectors.

NGO and Civil Society Efforts

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play important role in advocating for women’s rights and empowerment. Notable organisations include SEWA and Akshara, which focus on women’s issues. Awareness campaigns are conducted to educate communities about gender equality and women’s rights.

Analytical Topics on Gender Disparities

The impact of socio-cultural norms on gender disparities includes an analysis of traditional patriarchal structures and cultural practices that perpetuate discrimination. Economic empowerment and workforce participation are hindered by various barriers, including low participation rates and wage gaps. Educational attainment disparities illustrate the challenges girls face, especially in rural areas, affecting their future opportunities. Health disparities highlight the systemic barriers that limit women’s access to healthcare and the implications on overall well-being.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the impact of socio-cultural norms on gender disparities in India, particularly focusing on the dowry system and son preference.
2. Examine the barriers to women’s economic participation in India and analyze the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s entrepreneurship.
3. What are the factors contributing to higher dropout rates among girls in rural areas? Analyze the implications of these educational gaps on women’s empowerment.
4. Assess the health disparities faced by women in India, focusing on maternal mortality and access to healthcare services, and examine the systemic barriers that hinder their well-being.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the impact of socio-cultural norms on gender disparities in India, particularly focusing on the dowry system and son preference.

1. Socio-cultural norms in India often prioritize male offspring, leading to son preference.
2. The dowry system perpetuates financial burdens on families with daughters, reinforcing gender inequality.
3. These practices contribute to female infanticide and gender-selective abortions.
4. Women face limited opportunities in education and employment due to entrenched patriarchal values.
5. Social movements and legal reforms are challenging these norms but progress remains slow.

2. Examine the barriers to women’s economic participation in India and analyze the effectiveness of government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s entrepreneurship.

1. Barriers include lack of access to education, capital, and networks for women entrepreneurs.
2. Cultural norms often restrict women’s mobility and participation in the workforce.
3. Government initiatives like the Mudra Yojana and Stand-Up India aim to provide financial support to women entrepreneurs.
4. While initiatives have increased awareness, challenges in implementation and reach persist.
5. Success stories exist but require more robust mentorship and support systems for scalability.

3. What are the factors contributing to higher dropout rates among girls in rural areas? Analyze the implications of these educational gaps on women’s empowerment.

1. Poverty and economic necessity often lead families to prioritize boys’ education over girls’.
2. Lack of sanitation facilities in schools discourages girls from attending, particularly during menstruation.
3. Early marriage and societal expectations limit educational opportunities for girls.
4. Educational gaps hinder women’s employment prospects, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
5. Empowered women contribute to economic growth and community development when educated.

4. Assess the health disparities faced by women in India, focusing on maternal mortality and access to healthcare services, and examine the systemic barriers that hinder their well-being.

1. India has one of the highest maternal mortality rates, often due to inadequate healthcare access.
2. Barriers include lack of transportation, insufficient healthcare facilities, and cultural stigmas around seeking care.
3. Women in rural areas face greater challenges compared to their urban counterparts in accessing healthcare services.
4. Government schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana aim to improve maternal health but face implementation issues.
5. Addressing systemic barriers is crucial for improving women’s health outcomes and overall empowerment.