“Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on the socialisation of children.” – UPSC CSE Mains 2023 GS 1
A woman's social life is subject to the judgements of the people around her. There is not only societal pressure to marry at a particular age, but also familial pressure to have babies by a certain age. There are maternal psychological and biological factors that approve for early pregnancy, howeverRead more
A woman’s social life is subject to the judgements of the people around her. There is not only societal pressure to marry at a particular age, but also familial pressure to have babies by a certain age. There are maternal psychological and biological factors that approve for early pregnancy, however, the societal pressure from relatives, family members and society on a woman definitely affect her. It is said that higher the age, higher the risk for pregnancy, but very few families are open to discussing the real reasons and actually fall in the trap of futile expectations of the society. Women are pressurized in a number of ways. In-laws manipulate them to fulfill their wishes as early as possible, they have to manage their career and maternal journey at the same time, they may have bodily complications or hormonal issues that delay their pregnancies, however they have to listen to the nuisance thrown at them. These are a few instances of how a woman is subjected to stress and pressure. No matter what, pregnancy is considered to be an accomplishment in this society and whatever a woman does, she has to face one or other judgement that may or may not be scientific but definitely questioning the rationale of the society we live in.
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The underrepresentation of women in top positions across various fields, including judiciary, bureaucracy and private sector, is a complex issue with multiple factors: *Structural Barriers:* 1. Gender bias and stereotypes 2. Limited access to education and training 3. Lack of mentorship and networkiRead more
The underrepresentation of women in top positions across various fields, including judiciary, bureaucracy and private sector, is a complex issue with multiple factors:
*Structural Barriers:*
1. Gender bias and stereotypes
2. Limited access to education and training
3. Lack of mentorship and networking opportunities
4. Inadequate family-friendly policies
5. Discriminatory laws and regulations
*Societal Factors:*
1. Patriarchal norms and cultural values
2. Gender roles and expectations
3. Limited social support systems
4. Work-life balance challenges
5. Sexual harassment and violence
*Institutional Obstacles:*
1. Glass ceiling and tokenism
2. Lack of diversity and inclusion policies
3. Biased recruitment and promotion processes
4. Insufficient representation in decision-making bodies
5. Resistance to change and diversity
*Personal Factors:*
1. Self-doubt and imposter syndrome
2. Limited confidence and assertiveness
3. Career interruptions and gaps
4. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities
5. Lack of role models and inspiration
*Statistics:*
1. India: 13.5% women in Parliament, 7% in judiciary (SC and HC)
2. Global: 21% women in national parliaments, 17% in executive positions
3. Corporate India: 3.3% women CEOs, 12% directors
*Breaking the Glass Ceiling:*
1. Quotas and reservations (e.g., 33% reservation in Indian Parliament)
2. Mentorship programs and networking initiatives
3. Diversity and inclusion policies
4. Flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies
5. Education and awareness campaigns
6. Empowering women through economic independence
7. Celebrating women role models and achievements
*Government Initiatives :*
1. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
2. National Policy for Women Empowerment
3. Women’s Reservation Bill
4. Ministry of Women and Child Development programs
*Way Forward:*
1. Addressing societal and structural barriers
2. Promoting diversity and inclusion
3. Empowering women through education and economic independence
4. Encouraging women in leadership roles
5. Fostering supportive ecosystems and networks
To increase women’s representation in top positions, we need a multi-faceted approach addressing these factors and promoting gender equality.
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