How Historical and Economic Factors Contribute to Gender Inequality in India

20/03/25

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India’s journey towards greater gender equality has demonstrated that the collective will of its people can reshape, transform and make the fullest use of policymaking towards strategic and crucial developmental goals. India has, in recent years, changed the narrative from relying on historical disparities as a reason for complacency to fostering inclusive economic growth to expand opportunities for all. Today, equity in India is a reality in the making and can be seen across education, economic empowerment, gender inclusion, and social justice. However, addressing the causes of gender inequality remains a constant priority.

Education for equal opportunity

Education has long been recognised as the most powerful tool in bridging inequalities. India’s commitment to universal education has transformed access to learning, ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has an opportunity to build a brighter future.

The Right to Education (RTE) Act, enacted in 2009, has been instrumental in making education accessible and compulsory for children between six and 14 years. It has significantly reduced dropout rates and improved school enrollment, particularly among marginalised communities. Today, India has operationalised one of the world’s largest school education programmes, ensuring that millions of children receive quality education despite long-standing causes of gender inequality, such as traditional mindsets.

Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) has worked to provide infrastructure, teacher training, and digital learning solutions. The Mid-Day Meal Scheme (MDMS) ensures that children receive nutritious meals, directly impacting their academic performance and retention, not only combatting malnutrition but also encouraging parents to send their children to school, strengthening long-term literacy rates.

India has actively promoted higher education and skill development. Schemes such as National Scholarship Programs, reservation policies for socially disadvantaged communities, and initiatives like Skill India have made technical and vocational education more accessible.

Economic empowerment: strengthening livelihoods and opportunities

India’s economic policies have consistently aimed to uplift every section of society. Through financial inclusion, entrepreneurship programmes, and employment generation, the country has ensured that growth is not limited to a select few people and instead benefits all.

The MUDRA Yojana is one of India’s flagship programmes supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). By providing collateral-free loans to micro-entrepreneurs, it has empowered millions, particularly women and rural business owners, to become financially independent. Provisioning for more capital, the scheme has fostered a culture of self-reliance, helping individuals build sustainable livelihoods. This has been instrumental in addressing the problems of gender inequality, where women historically lacked access to capital and entrepreneurial support.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) has revolutionised financial access. By providing banking services to the unbanked, it has enabled families to save, invest, and participate in the formal economy. The programme’s emphasis on digital banking and direct benefit transfers has minimised economic disparities and strengthened financial security for millions.

Gender equality: Bridging the gap for women’s empowerment

Empowering women has been central to India’s progress towards equality. Legal reforms, financial initiatives, and educational programmes have played a critical role in ensuring that women are not only included but actively contribute to the nation’s development. These efforts are helping alleviate and build the pathway to eventually end discrimination against women.

Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, a landmark initiative promoting gender equality from childhood, is addressing gender-based disparities in education and advocating for girls’ rights. The initiative has transformed social mindsets, leading to improved female literacy rates and higher enrollment in schools and colleges. The Self Help Group (SHG) movement and Women Entrepreneurship Programs have provided women with capital and business support. The Stand-Up India initiative ensures that women-led businesses receive financial backing, encouraging female entrepreneurship across sectors.

Legal frameworks have also strengthened women’s rights. Reforms in maternity leave policies, stringent anti-harassment laws, and the increased representation of women in governance have created an ecosystem where women’s contributions are valued and protected.  However, sustained efforts are required to address the remaining problems of gender inequality.

Read Also: Gender Issues in India

NGO Bal Raksha Bharat has played a key role in promoting gender equality in India through its extensive work in education, economic empowerment, gender inclusion, and child protection. The organisation has helped improve educational opportunities by building schools, training teachers, and ensuring access to learning resources.  Their work directly addresses the reason of gender bias, challenging traditional norms that have historically limited opportunities for girls. As India moves forward, tackling the reason of gender bias in education, employment, and governance will be essential.

Its vocational training and skill development programmes have empowered women and families to achieve financial independence, fostering long-term economic resilience and mitigating discrimination against women. Additionally, its advocacy for girls’ education, prevention of child marriage, and response to gender-based violence have contributed to greater gender equality. By tackling the systemic causes of gender inequality and promoting equal access to education, healthcare, and financial resources, Bal Raksha Bharat is making a lasting impact on the future of women and girls in India.

Their work in child protection, including initiatives to combat child labor and trafficking, has provided thousands of children with safety, education, and rehabilitation.

Anikait Suri