Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Globalization, characterized by increased interconnectedness through trade, technology, and cultural exchange, has profoundly impacted India since the liberalization policies of 1991. While often touted for economic growth, its effects on women are multifaceted and often paradoxical. Traditionally, Indian women have faced socio-economic disadvantages, and globalization has both presented new opportunities for empowerment and simultaneously reinforced existing vulnerabilities. This answer will discuss the positive and negative consequences of globalization on women in India, examining its impact on their economic participation, social status, and overall well-being.
Positive Effects of Globalization on Women in India
Globalization has opened up several avenues for women’s empowerment in India:
- Economic Empowerment: Increased foreign investment and the growth of export-oriented industries (like textiles, garments, and IT) have created employment opportunities for women, particularly in the organized sector. This has led to increased financial independence and improved living standards. The rise of the BPO sector, for instance, has employed a significant number of women.
- Access to Education & Skill Development: Globalization has spurred demand for a skilled workforce, leading to increased investment in education and skill development programs targeting women. NGOs and international organizations have played a crucial role in providing vocational training and educational opportunities.
- Increased Awareness & Social Mobility: Exposure to global media and ideas has increased awareness among women about their rights and opportunities. This has contributed to greater social mobility and a challenge to traditional gender roles.
- Political Participation: Globalization has facilitated the growth of civil society organizations advocating for women’s rights and political participation. Increased awareness and advocacy have led to greater representation of women in local governance (through reservations mandated by the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts) and national politics.
- Entrepreneurship: Access to global markets and funding opportunities has encouraged women entrepreneurship, particularly in sectors like handicrafts, fashion, and small-scale manufacturing.
Negative Effects of Globalization on Women in India
Despite the positive impacts, globalization has also presented several challenges for Indian women:
- Exploitation in the Informal Sector: A large number of women are employed in the informal sector, where they face low wages, poor working conditions, and lack of social security. Globalization has intensified competition, leading to further exploitation of these workers.
- Increased Workload & Time Poverty: Women often bear the brunt of adjusting to the demands of a globalized economy, juggling paid work with traditional household responsibilities. This leads to increased workload and time poverty, limiting their opportunities for personal development.
- Gender Wage Gap: Despite increased employment, the gender wage gap persists in India. Women continue to earn less than men for the same work, reflecting systemic discrimination and undervaluation of women’s labor. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022-23, the average daily wage for women was ₹202.32, compared to ₹314.04 for men.
- Rise in Trafficking & Forced Labour: Globalization has facilitated the trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation and forced labour. Increased migration and porous borders make it easier for traffickers to operate.
- Erosion of Traditional Support Systems: Globalization can lead to the erosion of traditional support systems, such as joint families, which often provided women with social and economic security.
- Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology and digital literacy skills creates a digital divide, hindering women’s ability to participate fully in the digital economy.
Government Initiatives & Policies
The Indian government has implemented several policies to mitigate the negative effects of globalization and promote women’s empowerment:
- Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (2015): Aims to address declining child sex ratio and promote education of girls.
- Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra Scheme (2017): Provides women with access to information, skill development, and employment opportunities.
- National Mission for Empowerment of Women (NMEW): Aims to create an environment through convergent & effective implementation of various schemes for empowerment of women.
- Mahila E-Haat (2016): An online platform to support women entrepreneurs.
| Positive Impacts | Negative Impacts |
|---|---|
| Increased employment opportunities | Exploitation in the informal sector |
| Greater access to education | Increased workload and time poverty |
| Enhanced awareness of rights | Persistent gender wage gap |
| Increased political participation | Rise in trafficking and forced labour |
Conclusion
Globalization’s impact on Indian women is a complex interplay of opportunities and challenges. While it has undoubtedly opened doors to economic empowerment and social mobility, it has also exacerbated existing inequalities and created new vulnerabilities. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including strengthening labor laws, promoting gender equality in education and employment, investing in social safety nets, and combating trafficking. A holistic and inclusive approach to globalization is essential to ensure that Indian women can fully benefit from its opportunities and contribute to the nation’s progress.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.