Gender Equality

Gender equality remains a significant challenge in India. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2020, India ranks 112th out of 153 countries in terms of gender equality. Women in India face numerous obstacles, including unequal pay, limited representation in politics and business, and high levels of gender-based violence. Achieving gender equality in India, will require a collective effort from all sectors of society, including government, business, and civil society. It will also require a shift in attitudes and cultural norms, to challenge traditional notions of gender roles and to promote equal opportunities for all. 

Gender-based Violence

Gender-based violence is a major issue in India and affects women and girls across the country. Forms of violence against women in India include domestic violence, sexual assault, and female infanticide. The National Crime Records Bureau reported that in 2019, there were over 300,000 reported cases of violence against women, including rape, kidnapping, and dowry-related violence.

The root causes of gender-based violence in India are deeply ingrained cultural and societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality. Women are often viewed as subordinate to men and are subjected to harmful practices such as child marriage and dowry demands.

Despite the severity of the issue, the response to gender-based violence in India has been inadequate. Many victims of violence are reluctant to report abuse due to societal stigma and a lack of trust in the legal system. The Indian government has enacted laws aimed at protecting women from violence, such as the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, but enforcement of these laws remains a challenge.

Representation in workforce

The underrepresentation of women in the workforce is a persistent issue in India. According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2020, India ranks 120th out of 153 countries in terms of women’s economic participation and opportunity. Several factors contribute to the underrepresentation of women in the Indian workforce. Cultural norms often dictate that women’s primary responsibility is in the home, and women face significant barriers to accessing education and employment opportunities. Additionally, discrimination and unequal pay for women who do enter the workforce also contribute to their underrepresentation.

The underrepresentation of women in the workforce has negative consequences not only for women but for the entire Indian economy. Women’s participation in the workforce can lead to increased economic growth and competitiveness, and can also contribute to reduced poverty and greater gender equality.

Underrepresented in politics and decision-making positions

The underrepresentation of women in politics and decision-making positions is a significant challenge in India. Despite being one of the largest democracies in the world, women are still vastly underrepresented in political leadership positions and key decision-making roles. According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, women occupy only 14% of the seats in the lower house of the Indian Parliament. In addition, women hold few senior leadership positions in the government, private sector, and civil society organizations.

The root causes of women’s underrepresentation in politics and decision-making positions in India are deeply ingrained cultural and societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality. Women are often viewed as less capable and less authoritative than men and face significant barriers to accessing education, employment, and political opportunities.

Addressing this issue, it will require a concerted effort to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in all sectors of society. This will involve measures to increase women’s participation in politics and decision-making roles, as well as initiatives to challenge cultural norms that limit women’s opportunities and influence. By increasing the representation of women in politics and decision-making positions, India can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society and can ensure that women’s voices and perspectives are heard in key decisions that impact the lives of all citizens.