Despite women’s achievements post-Independence, India’s social outlook remains patriarchal. Beyond education and empowerment initiatives, fostering cultural shifts through media representation, legal reforms promoting gender equality, and community awareness programs are crucial interventions to challenge and transform the prevailing societal mindset.
UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 2 Mains 2021
UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2021
Approach
- Start with a brief intro of how women got empowered post-Independence and what are the issues faced in the backdrop of patriarchy.
- Discuss the initiatives that can be taken to tackle this issue.
- Conclusion/way forward accordingly.
Answer
Introduction
- Post-Independent India has seen patriarchal norms granting men primary power, moral authority, special privileges, and control over property. Women have gained increased access to education, communication, media, and political participation, leading to a growing consciousness among them. Women like Kalpana Chawla, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, and the late Sushma Swaraj have made remarkable contributions in various fields. Other hand , challenges such as the Sabarimala controversy, Triple Talaq, and the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s judgement on the POCSO Act reveal the persistent patriarchal barriers that hinder progress.
Body
The initiatives that can be taken to tackle issues: In order to bring about a positive change in the social attitude towards women and promote gender equality in India, several interventions can be implemented. Here are a few examples:
- Legal Reforms: Strengthening existing laws and introducing new legislation to protect women’s rights can play a crucial role. For instance, the introduction of laws like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act in 2005 aimed to provide legal remedies to women facing domestic violence. Similarly, amendments to the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act in 2013 made workplaces safer for women.
- Gender Sensitization Programs: Implementing comprehensive gender sensitization programs across various sectors can help challenge patriarchal mindsets. These programs can be conducted in educational institutions, workplaces, and communities, and should focus on promoting gender equality, challenging stereotypes, and fostering respect and empathy towards women. For example, the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) campaign initiated by the Indian government aims to change mindsets and promote the value of girl child education.
- Media and Popular Culture: The media has a significant influence on public opinion. Encouraging the media to portray women in a more empowering and diverse manner can challenge existing stereotypes and promote gender equality. By promoting strong female role models and showcasing their achievements across various fields, the media can inspire young girls and change societal perceptions. For instance, movies like “Dangal” and “Padman” have shed light on women’s achievements and the importance of breaking gender barriers.
- Gender-responsive education: Educational initiatives targeting boys and young men, focusing on redefining masculinity and promoting respectful relationships, can help break the cycle of patriarchal attitudes. The “HeForShe” campaign initiated by UN Women encourages men to become advocates for gender equality. For example, the state of Kerala in India introduced the Gender Park initiative, which aims to integrate gender perspectives into education and other sectors.
- Economic Empowerment: Promoting economic opportunities for women can significantly contribute to changing societal attitudes. Initiatives that provide skill training, entrepreneurship support, and access to finance can empower women economically and challenge traditional gender roles. For example, the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in India has been successful in organising and empowering women in the informal sector.
- Community Engagement: This involves working closely with local leaders, religious institutions, and community organisations to challenge patriarchal norms and promote gender justice. For instance, the “Bell Bajao” campaign in India encouraged community members to intervene and raise awareness about domestic violence by ringing a bell when they witnessed it happening.
- Workplace Policies: This includes ensuring equal pay for equal work, offering flexible work arrangements, providing maternity and paternity leave, and creating a safe and inclusive work environment free from harassment and discrimination. For example Tata Group’s Maternity and Paternity Leave Policy, which grants equal leave benefits to both male and female employees.
Conclusion
- Hence, we can say that a multi-faceted approach involving legal reforms, gender sensitization programs, media influence, engaging men and boys, and economic empowerment can help transform the social attitude towards women in India. By implementing these interventions and promoting a more inclusive and equal society, we can work towards dismantling patriarchal norms and fostering gender equality.
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