Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define Key Concepts: Briefly introduce gender equality, gender equity, and women’s empowerment. Thesis Statement: State the importance of these concepts in achieving social justice and sustainable development. 2. Distinction Between Concepts A. Gender Equality Definition: Equal treatment and opportunities for ...
Model Answer Introduction Patriarchy remains a dominant social system, deeply influencing various aspects of women’s lives. It restricts their autonomy in personal, social, economic, and political spheres. By granting power and privileges to men, patriarchy subordinates women, perpetuating gender inRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Patriarchy remains a dominant social system, deeply influencing various aspects of women’s lives. It restricts their autonomy in personal, social, economic, and political spheres. By granting power and privileges to men, patriarchy subordinates women, perpetuating gender inequality.
Infiltrating Women’s Personal Realms
Patriarchy dictates traditional gender roles within the family, where women are expected to handle unpaid domestic work. According to the Time Use Survey (2019-2020), women in India spend three times more hours on household duties than men. Socialization practices further reinforce these roles, as girls are taught to prioritize family and caregiving, limiting their personal ambitions. Additionally, societal pressure over reproductive rights restricts women’s agency, evidenced by the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), which shows 13% of married women have unmet family planning needs, reflecting limited control over reproductive decisions.
Entangling Social Bonds
Patriarchal norms regulate women’s behavior through surveillance and moral policing, dictating their attire, relationships, and lifestyle. Women face social discrimination, especially from marginalized communities. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau (2019) highlights over 147,000 reported cases of cruelty by husbands or relatives. Moreover, Dalit women experience compounded discrimination due to both caste and gender, leading to their further marginalization.
Restricting Economic Opportunities
Women face wage disparities, occupational segregation, and limited career advancement. According to the World Economic Forum (2021), India ranks 140th out of 156 countries in wage equality for similar work. Women’s access to financial resources, such as loans, remains limited, hindering entrepreneurial efforts. Additionally, the “glass ceiling” restricts women from reaching executive positions, with women holding only 17% of board seats in India.
Withholding Political Empowerment
Patriarchy limits women’s political participation. In India, women hold only 14% of parliamentary seats. Social biases and stereotypes, coupled with lack of resources and safety concerns, deter women from entering politics. Violence and harassment further restrict their political participation.
Needful Measures
To overcome patriarchal constraints, it is essential to implement gender-responsive laws, establish quotas for political representation, and promote gender equality in decision-making. Encouraging male allies and creating safe spaces for women in politics will help dismantle patriarchal structures.
Conclusion
Addressing patriarchy requires systemic change, ensuring women have equal opportunities and the freedom to participate fully in all aspects of life. With targeted measures and social support, we can pave the way for a more equitable future for women.
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Model Answer Gender equality, gender equity, and women’s empowerment are interconnected concepts aimed at addressing disparities between genders. Gender Equality: This refers to the equal treatment of individuals regardless of gender, ensuring that everyone has the same rights, responsibilities, andRead more
Model Answer
Gender equality, gender equity, and women’s empowerment are interconnected concepts aimed at addressing disparities between genders.
Importance of Incorporating Gender Concerns in Programme Design and Implementation
By integrating gender considerations into program design, we can foster a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
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