Context
The 25th edition of the publication “Women and Men in India 2023” was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on August 12, 2024. This comprehensive document provides a detailed analysis of the socio-economic status of women and men in India, highlighting gender disparities across various sectors. The publication serves as a crucial resource for policymakers, researchers, and advocates working towards gender equality.
Key Themes of the Publication
- Population Dynamics: The report presents significant projections regarding India’s population. By 2036, the population is expected to reach 152.2 crore, with a slight increase in the female percentage from 48.5% in 2011 to 48.8%. Notably, the sex ratio is projected to improve from 943 females per 1,000 males in 2011 to 952 by 2036, indicating a positive trend towards gender equality.
- Education and Literacy: Education remains a critical area of focus in the report. The publication emphasizes the correlation between education levels and fertility rates. For instance, the adolescent fertility rate is significantly higher among illiterate women (33.9) compared to literate women (11.0). This underscores the importance of educational initiatives aimed at empowering women and reducing fertility rates.
- Health Indicators: Health statistics are a vital component of the report. The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) has seen significant improvement, achieving a ratio of 97 per lakh live births in 2018-20, moving towards the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of 70 by 2030. Furthermore, the Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has decreased, with both male and female IMR equalizing at 28 per 1,000 live births in 2020.
- Economic Participation: The report highlights the Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR), which has been increasing since 2017-18 for both genders. However, disparities remain, with women’s participation lagging significantly behind men’s. The LFPR for males was 77.2%, while for females, it was only 32.8% in 2021-22. This gap is attributed to various factors, including social norms and gender discrimination in the workplace.
- Decision-Making Participation: The report also addresses women’s participation in decision-making processes. While there has been progress, significant gaps remain in political representation and leadership roles for women. The publication calls for policies that promote gender-sensitive governance and encourage women’s involvement in decision-making at all levels.
Analysis of Trends Over Time
- The publication provides a longitudinal analysis of various socio-economic indicators, enabling a better understanding of trends over time.
- For instance, the report notes a reduction in fertility rates among younger women, reflecting changing societal norms and increased access to education and employment opportunities.
Changes in Fertility Rates
- The age-specific fertility rates for women aged 20-24 and 25-29 have decreased, indicating a shift in family planning practices.
- The fertility rate for women aged 35-39 has increased slightly, suggesting that women are opting to have children later in life, often after establishing their careers.
Shift in Age Structure
- The report highlights a demographic shift, with a decrease in the proportion of the population under 15 years and an increase in those aged 60 years and above.
- This change poses challenges and opportunities for policy planning, particularly in areas such as healthcare, social security, and workforce participation.
Recommendations for Policy and Action
- Promoting Gender Equity : The publication emphasizes the need for targeted policies to address gender disparities. This includes initiatives to enhance women’s access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. It also calls for increased awareness and advocacy to challenge societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality.
- Enhancing Data Collection and Analysis : To effectively address gender issues, the report advocates for improved data collection and analysis. Disaggregated data by gender, age, and socio-economic status is essential for understanding the unique challenges faced by different groups and for designing effective interventions.
- Strengthening Community : Engaging communities in discussions about gender equality is crucial. The report encourages grassroots initiatives that empower women and promote their active participation in decision-making processes. This includes fostering leadership skills and providing platforms for women’s voices to be heard.
Conclusion
The “Women and Men in India 2023” publication serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities of gender dynamics in India. By presenting comprehensive data and analysis, it highlights both the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving gender equality. The insights provided in this report are essential for informing policy decisions and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Source: PIB
UPSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The progress towards gender equality in India has been marked by significant milestones, yet substantial disparities persist in various socio-economic spheres. Critically analyze the current status of gender equality in India, with particular reference to education, employment, and political participation. What measures have been taken by the government to bridge the gender gap, and what more needs to be done?