What are the major challenges in bridging the gender inequality gap in India
Speaker Om Birla emphasizes the need to bridge the gap in gender inequality for ensuring development.
- Deep-rooted cultural and social norms: Gender inequality in India is deeply ingrained in cultural and social norms, such as the preference for male children, the practice of dowry, and restrictive gender roles.
- Limited access to education: Despite progress, girls in India still face challenges in accessing quality education, including low enrollment rates, high dropout rates, and limited opportunities for higher education.
- Violence against women: The prevalence of violence against women, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and harassment, remains a significant barrier to gender equality. It creates a culture of fear and restricts women's access to opportunities.
- Unequal economic opportunities: Women in India face limited access to employment opportunities, especially in the formal sector, and are often paid less for the same work as their male counterparts. This perpetuates gender inequality and economic dependency.
- Lack of political representation: Women's representation in Indian politics remains low, which hampers their ability to participate in decision-making processes and shape policies that promote gender equality.
- Discrimination in inheritance rights: Women face discrimination when it comes to inheritance rights, particularly in patriarchal family structures, which restricts their economic independence and perpetuates gender inequality.
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