Gender Equality refers to equal rights, and opportunities for everyone, regardless of their gender. Promotion of women’s right and gender equality are interrelated to each other. Gender equality inherently necessitates the empowerment of women and advocate women’s right. The status of women in India is characterised by a complex interplay of progress and ongoing challenges.  Sexual violence and exploitation, unequal division of unpaid care and domestic work, inequality in wages, discrimination in public offices, all remains a huge barrier.

The Constitution of India provides several provisions to prohibit discrimination and promote equality. Article 15(3) requires the state to make laws in favour of women. The DPSPs directs the states to make provisions for women and children. The government passed the Women Reservation Act in 2023 for reservation for women in Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly. Gender Budgeting is implemented to advance gender equality. In 2015, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao aimed to create awareness for girls’ education. Nirbhaya Fund is to support initiatives improving women’s safety. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana to promote fiscal inclusion, Stand up India to promote entrepreneurship among women and minorities. Training and capacity building programmes to equip women with skills and develop leadership. Minimum Wages Act, Maternity Benefit Act, Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, all provides a mechanism to ensure equality, benefits and prevent harassment at workplaces. Globally, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.

As India moves towards “Viksit Bharat 2047”, it is time for a collective effort to provide a safe and secure society where every women has the opportunity to thrive.