Model Answer

Introduction

The patriarchal social structure in India significantly impacts the labor market by reinforcing gender-based occupational segregation. In a society where men are traditionally seen as breadwinners and women as caretakers, women face barriers that limit their participation in various sectors, leading to a skewed division of labor.

Dual Burden and Occupational Choices

While women have increasingly joined the workforce since the 1990s, they often bear a dual burden of domestic responsibilities and professional work. The nuclearization of families and rising labor costs force women to balance both household chores and paid employment. This limits their career advancement and forces them into certain “pink-collar” jobs such as teaching, healthcare, customer service, and administrative roles, which are traditionally seen as extensions of their domestic responsibilities.

The Corporate Glass Ceiling

Patriarchal expectations also manifest in the workplace through the “glass ceiling,” a barrier that prevents women from rising to top positions in corporate hierarchies. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in leadership roles. For instance, in 2019, less than 4% of CEOs in India were women. This disparity is linked to societal expectations around childcare and household responsibilities, which often deter women from pursuing higher positions.

Safety Concerns and Gender Bias

The safety of women in public spaces also discourages them from taking up employment, especially jobs that require mobility. Reports like those from the MeToo movement reveal widespread harassment and assault in workplaces, contributing to India’s low female labor force participation. Furthermore, women entering male-dominated sectors face gender bias and stereotypes, which hinder their career progression.

Gender Wage Gap and Education Barriers

The gender wage gap remains a persistent issue. According to the Global Gender Gap Index 2022, India ranks 135 out of 146 countries for wage equality. Women often receive lower wages for the same work due to deep-rooted patriarchal norms. Additionally, limited access to education and vocational training further restricts women’s entry into higher-paying, skill-intensive jobs.

Measures to Address Occupational Segregation

To address these issues, a multi-pronged approach is needed:

• Behavioral Nudges: Policies like paternity leave can encourage shared responsibility for child-rearing, easing the burden on women.
• Gender Sensitization: Education and awareness campaigns at schools, families, and workplaces can challenge traditional gender roles and biases.
• Social Security and Financial Literacy: Formalizing informal jobs and improving financial literacy can provide better security for women workers in sectors like agriculture and domestic work.
• Workplace Safety and Equal Pay: Stronger laws like the Sexual Harassment at Workplaces Act, along with policies for equal pay, can promote safer and more equitable work environments.

Conclusion

Addressing the patriarchal influences on India’s labor market is crucial for achieving gender equality. By removing structural barriers and ensuring equal access to education, career opportunities, and safety at work, India can tap into the full potential of its women workforce, contributing to broader social and economic development.

Model Answer

Introduction

In India, suicide has become the leading cause of death among individuals aged 15-29, with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reporting 164,033 suicides in 2021, a 7.2% increase from the previous year.

Reasons for Rising Suicides

1. Family Problems: Family issues account for nearly one-third of all suicide cases. Changing family structures and a lack of communication lead to insecurity and emotional distress among individuals.
2. Economic and Professional Discontent: A significant factor is dissatisfaction with professional status and economic conditions. The Health Ministry notes that 63.3% of suicides occur among individuals earning less than Rs. 1 lakh per annum, indicating financial strain leads to despair.
3. Illness: Lack of access to medical care and treatment for life-threatening diseases contributes to feelings of hopelessness. Mental health conditions, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, also play a critical role.
4. Unemployment: With an unemployment rate of around 8%, many young individuals face pressure and depression, leading to suicidal thoughts.
5. Substance Abuse: According to the National Mental Health Survey (2015-16), over 22% of adults in India suffer from substance use disorders, significantly increasing the risk of suicide.

National Suicide Prevention Strategy

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, aiming to reduce suicide mortality by 10% by 2030. Key focus areas include:

• Surveillance Mechanisms: Establishing effective surveillance for suicide within three years through enhanced leadership and partnerships.
• Psychiatric Services: Implementing psychiatric outpatient departments in all districts within five years to provide suicide prevention services.
• Mental Well-Being Curriculum: Integrating mental health education in schools over the next eight years to foster community resilience and societal support.
• Reducing Access to Means: Phasing out hazardous pesticides to limit means of suicide.
• Stigma Reduction: Creating guidelines for media to report responsibly on suicides, addressing the stigma that hinders individuals from seeking help.
• Data Collection: Strengthening data collection on suicides and attempts to better inform prevention strategies.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of this strategy requires sustained commitment from both central and state governments, aiming to inspire hope and create a supportive environment for mental health.