Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Gender inequality remains a pervasive challenge in India, despite constitutional guarantees of equality. Rooted in deeply entrenched patriarchal norms and historical disadvantages, it manifests in various forms – skewed sex ratios, limited access to education and healthcare, economic disparities, and underrepresentation in political and decision-making spheres. The 2022 Global Gender Gap Report placed India at 135th position out of 146 countries, highlighting the significant gap that persists. Savitribai Phule, a 19th-century social reformer, emerged as a beacon of hope, relentlessly fighting against these inequalities, particularly through her pioneering work in education for girls and marginalized communities.
Factors Responsible for Gender Inequality in India
Several interconnected factors contribute to gender inequality in India:
- Socio-Cultural Norms: Patriarchal attitudes, son preference, rigid gender roles, and practices like dowry and purdah contribute significantly. These norms often limit women’s agency and opportunities.
- Economic Disparities: Women face wage gaps, limited access to property ownership, and fewer employment opportunities, particularly in the formal sector. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2022-23, the female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) was only 37.2% compared to 57.5% for males.
- Educational Disadvantage: Despite improvements, girls still face barriers to education, especially in rural areas, due to factors like poverty, early marriage, and lack of infrastructure. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to address these disparities.
- Political Underrepresentation: Women remain underrepresented in political institutions at all levels, hindering their ability to influence policy-making. The Women’s Reservation Bill, passed in September 2023, aims to reserve 33% of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.
- Violence Against Women: High rates of gender-based violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and female foeticide, perpetuate inequality and create a climate of fear.
- Historical Factors: Colonial policies and pre-colonial social structures reinforced patriarchal norms and limited women’s rights.
Savitribai Phule’s Contribution
Savitribai Phule (1831-1897) was a trailblazer in the fight for gender equality and social justice. Her contributions were revolutionary for her time:
- Pioneering Education: Along with her husband, Jyotirao Phule, she established one of the first girls’ schools in Bhide Wada, Pune, in 1848. This was a radical act, as education was largely denied to girls and lower-caste individuals.
- Challenging Caste Discrimination: She actively worked against caste discrimination, advocating for the education of children from marginalized communities.
- Advocacy for Widow Remarriage: Savitribai Phule championed the cause of widow remarriage, challenging the social stigma associated with it.
- Literary Contributions: She authored several books, including ‘Kavya Phule’ and ‘Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar’, promoting education and social reform through her writings.
- Fighting Social Evil: She actively campaigned against harmful social practices like Sati and child marriage.
Her work laid the foundation for future generations of feminists and social reformers in India. She faced immense opposition and harassment for her progressive views, but remained steadfast in her commitment to social justice.
Conclusion
Gender inequality in India is a complex issue with deep historical and socio-cultural roots. While significant progress has been made in recent decades, substantial challenges remain. Savitribai Phule’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education, social reform, and unwavering commitment to equality. Addressing gender inequality requires a multi-pronged approach involving policy interventions, social awareness campaigns, and a fundamental shift in societal attitudes, building upon the foundations laid by pioneers like Savitribai Phule.
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.