India’s journey towards economic and social progress remains incomplete without empowering its women. While the country has made visible strides in sectors like education and employment, many women still face barriers in everyday life. To become a truly developed nation, India must ensure that women have equal access to education, work, and decision-making roles.
A Look at the Numbers
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), female literacy has improved in the past decade. Today, over 70 percent of women in India are literate. However, the female labour force participation rate remains low at around 25 percent, as reported by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (2022-23). These figures reveal a clear gap between education and economic freedom for women.
At the political level, only about 15% of Lok Sabha members are women. In state assemblies, this number is even lower. Despite the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill in 2023, implementation still lies in the future. This gap limits women’s role in shaping laws and policies.
Social Barriers Still Persist
Several deep-rooted social norms and practices continue to restrict women’s growth. In rural areas, early marriage and childbearing often force girls to drop out of school. In urban spaces, safety concerns and workplace discrimination prevent many from pursuing careers. The burden of unpaid domestic work also falls mostly on women, leaving little time for personal or professional development.
Laws and Schemes in Action
India has introduced several laws to support women. These include the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005) and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013). Government schemes such as Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao and Ujjwala Yojana aim to improve girls’ education and reduce household burdens.
While these efforts are welcome, many schemes suffer from poor implementation. Delayed funds, lack of awareness, and weak monitoring systems often reduce their impact on the ground.
Economic Freedom
Giving women control over finances can bring major change. According to the McKinsey Global Institute, India could add $770 billion to its GDP by 2025 if women participated in the economy at the same rate as men. Studies also show that women are more likely to reinvest their income in health, education, and family welfare. This creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire community.
Encouraging entrepreneurship among women can also play a major role. Self-help groups and microfinance institutions have already shown promise in rural areas. With better digital access and training, these efforts can reach more women across the country.
Organisations like the Asha Raman Foundation have been working at the grassroots to promote financial literacy, leadership skills, and confidence among women, especially in underserved communities. Their work shows how targeted efforts can lead to measurable change.
Education Is the Foundation
Educating girls is the most powerful step towards empowerment. It not only delays early marriage and childbirth but also opens doors to better jobs and informed choices. The government must invest more in building safe schools, training teachers, and offering scholarships for girls.
Digital literacy also needs attention. According to a UNICEF report, only 33 percent of internet users in India are women. Bridging this digital gap is crucial for access to information, job portals, and online services.
Final Take
Women empowerment is not just a women’s issue. Men and society must actively support gender equality at home, in workplaces, and in public life. Change begins with families, schools, and the media. Boys must learn from an early age to respect girls and share responsibilities as equals.
Empowering women is not a slogan. It is a national need. Laws and schemes can only go so far. True progress demands better education, safer environments, equal opportunities, and strong social support systems. Only then can India tap into the full potential of its people and build a fair, inclusive, and forward-looking society.