Indian Women's Journey

This study maps changes in gender inequality in different sectors, the quantum and direction of change and the contribution of change agents. With contributions from ten sector specialists it is a unique in-depth volume. The study questions the parameters normally used to measure gender equality - changes in economic, political, legal and social sectors; education; health and nutrition; participation in work; in governance; and the narrowing gap in these sectors. The sector analysis, important as it is, does not capture women's lives and the inequality and discrimination which creep in through traditional social structures built on beliefs and practices, reinforced by religion, which clash with modern organisational and technological changes. These react with traditional structures. which is expressed in increase in violence, unrest and familial disharmony. We need to examine women's lives further by caste, class and region to understand the micro-level changes impacting gender equality and evolve standard for measuring it. The book helps us understand why it is important to understand the factors that impact the lives of half of our population.