Role of Women & Women’s Organization

Model Answer

Introduction

The women’s movement in India has been pivotal in advocating for women’s rights and gender equality, particularly gaining momentum in the 1970s and 80s. While organizations such as Saheli and Manushi have emerged to address specific issues, a critical examination reveals that these movements have largely overlooked the concerns of women from lower social strata.

Leadership from Upper and Middle Classes

One significant reason for this oversight is that the movement has predominantly been led by women from upper and middle-class backgrounds. Early leaders like Pandita Ramabai and later activists such as Medha Patkar were primarily urban and educated, leading to a disconnect with the realities faced by poor, rural women (Kumar, 2020). Their experiences often shaped the movement’s focus, which frequently aligned with the issues affecting women of similar socio-economic status rather than those of marginalized groups.

Limited Economic Focus

The feminist movement has largely concentrated on issues such as violence against women and reproductive rights, neglecting economic concerns of women in informal sectors. Many women from lower strata work as domestic laborers or in agriculture, facing exploitative conditions and low wages—issues that have not been adequately addressed (Patel, 2019).

Caste and Additional Constraints

Furthermore, the caste dimension is critical for women from lower strata, yet it remains largely unaddressed in mainstream feminist discourse. Women from marginalized castes endure compounded oppression, including limited access to education and property (Rai, 2021). The language and frameworks used in feminist movements often alienate these women, who may be illiterate and unable to engage with the discourse.

Selective Issue Coverage

Additionally, the women’s movement tends to emphasize high-profile issues like temple entry and triple talaq, which do not resonate with the everyday struggles of lower-class women. For instance, while sexual and domestic violence is pervasive among these women, it has not received adequate attention within feminist narratives (Sharma, 2022).

Conclusion

While the women’s movement in India has made notable advancements, it has largely failed to address the concerns of women from lower social strata. To foster true gender equality and social justice, the movement must adopt a more inclusive and intersectional approach, ensuring that the voices and needs of all women are represented.

Model Answer

Introduction

The alarming rise in suicide cases among young women in India has become a significant point of concern. Recent statistics indicate an unsettling trend of heightened suicide rates among this group. For instance, according to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), the suicide rate for young Indian women has risen from 12.7 per 100,000 in 2011 to 17.5 per 100,000 in 2021, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.

Reasons Behind the Increasing Suicide Among Young Women in Indian Society:

Educational Pressures

The intense pressure faced by students in educational institutions, particularly in prestigious institutes like the IITs, has led to numerous cases of student suicides, including among young women. This pressure to excel academically contributes significantly to mental health issues.

Identity Crisis

Social media platforms, such as Instagram, have seen a rise in influencers promoting body positivity. However, the pervasive issues of body image and identity crises among young women can lead to severe mental distress, sometimes culminating in suicide.

Financial Pressures

Economic hardships are prevalent, with many young women feeling the burden to contribute financially to their families. This overwhelming pressure can create an environment where suicide becomes a tragic option.

Unemployment

Despite being highly educated, many women struggle to find stable employment. The challenges faced by women in the professional world, as highlighted by figures like Chanda Kochhar, significantly affect their mental well-being and contribute to rising suicide rates.

Unhealthy Usage of Technology

The digital age, while offering advantages, also presents dangers. Incidents like the “Blue Whale Challenge” illustrate the risks of cyberbullying and extreme online challenges that can lead to tragic outcomes for young women.

Increased Isolation

While technology promotes connectivity, it can paradoxically lead to feelings of isolation. The experiences of young entrepreneurs like Ananya Birla underscore the loneliness that can accompany success in a tech-driven era, further exacerbating mental health issues.

Conclusion

To combat this rising trend, it is vital to foster a society that nurtures and supports young women through systemic changes that prioritize holistic well-being. Learning from successful initiatives globally and nationally can pave the way for a safer environment, ultimately reducing suicide rates among young women in India.