Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) is a critical part of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aiming to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. India, as a signatory to the Agenda, has made significant strides towards achieving this goal. This article delves into the current state of SDG 5 in India, the nation's position, plans, programs, and schemes aimed at advancing gender equality.
Key Statistics for India
According to the Gender Gap Report 2023 by the World Economic Forum (WEF):
India's rank in global gender parity improves to 127th out of 146 countries, a significant improvement from the 135th rank in the previous edition.
India achieves parity in enrollment across all levels of education.
Women's representation in local governance stands at over 40% in 18 countries, including India.
Women's representation in Parliament reaches 15.1%, the highest since the inaugural report in 2006.
India achieves only 36.7% parity on economic participation and opportunity.
India registers 25.3% parity in political empowerment.
Improvement in sex ratio at birth drives up parity in India after slow progress, with the sex ratio at birth standing at 92.7%.
India's Position and Commitment to SDG 5
India has exhibited its commitment to SDG 5 through its active participation in international forums, policy frameworks, and initiatives. The Indian government recognizes that achieving gender equality is not only a moral imperative but also vital for sustainable development.
Plans, Programs, and Schemes by India towards SDG 5
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched to combat gender-biased sex selection, BBBP promotes girl child survival and education. It aims to improve the declining child sex ratio by addressing cultural biases, ensuring girls' protection, and enhancing their access to education.
Mahila E-Haat: Empowering women entrepreneurs, Mahila E-Haat offers an online platform for showcasing and selling products. It promotes economic independence by enabling women to engage in business ventures and reach a wider market.
Stand Up India: Facilitating women's entrepreneurship, this scheme provides financial assistance through bank loans for setting up new businesses. By ensuring at least one woman benefits per bank branch, it encourages female-led enterprises.
Mahila Shakti Kendra: Focused on rural women, this initiative empowers them through skill development and employment opportunities. It serves as a catalyst for socio-economic growth in rural communities.
Working Women Hostel (WWH): Offering safe accommodation and daycare facilities, WWH supports working women who require secure housing options. It helps women balance work and family responsibilities.
Mahila Samman Savings Certificate: It offers a deposit facility of up to Rs. 2 lakh in the name of women or girls for a tenor of 2 years at a fixed interest rate of 7.5 percent with a partial withdrawal option. This scheme directly contributes to the economic empowerment of women by providing them a secure and beneficial savings avenue.
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana: Supporting pregnant women and lactating mothers, this scheme provides financial assistance for their first child's well-being. It contributes to women's health and maternal care.
National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyaan): Focusing on maternal and child health, this mission aims to improve nutritional outcomes for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under five. It addresses malnutrition through targeted interventions.
One Stop Centers (OSCs): These centers provide essential support to women affected by violence, offering medical, legal, and psychological assistance. They serve as crucial safe spaces for survivors seeking help.
Women's Helpline (181): A round-the-clock helpline, 181 offers support to women in distress, providing guidance and assistance. It ensures women have access to help during challenging situations.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: By providing clean cooking fuel, this scheme improves the health and well-being of rural households. It reduces women's exposure to indoor air pollution and promotes cleaner cooking practices.
Rashtriya Mahila Kosh (RMK): Supporting women's economic empowerment, RMK provides loans to NGOs and organizations that empower women through economic activities. It fosters financial self-sufficiency.
National Crèche Scheme for the Children of Working Mothers: Addressing the needs of working mothers, this scheme offers daycare services, ensuring children's care while mothers are at work. It supports women's participation in the workforce.
Noteworthy Achievements and Challenges
India has made significant strides towards gender equality, such as increased enrollment of girls in schools and women's representation in political offices. However, deeply rooted cultural norms and practices continue to hinder progress. Violence against women, limited access to healthcare, and the persistence of child marriage remain challenges.
Conclusion
While India has embarked on a journey to achieve SDG 5, there's still much work to be done. The nation's commitment to gender equality is evident through its various initiatives and programs. By addressing systemic inequalities, ensuring equal access to education and healthcare, and empowering women economically, India can move closer to achieving the vision of Sustainable Development Goal 5. The path may be challenging, but the pursuit of gender equality is a fundamental step towards a more equitable and prosperous society.
Source: iPleaders | The Hindu | PIB | The Global Goals
Note for UPSC Aspirants: For UPSC aspirants interested in exploring further, here are some keywords to guide your research: Sustainable Development Goals, Gender Equality, Gender Gap Report, World Economic Forum, Ujjwala Yojana, Maternal Health.
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