While gender inequality is detrimental to every gender, it is typically women and girls in particular who are the most disadvantaged. With the introduction of the Women’s Reservation Bill, women in India are receiving an opportunity to have greater representation in parliament. This bill, which has now become law, shows positive signs of significantly strengthening gender equality in India.

Everyday Life in India

As of June 2023, India held the title of the world’s most populous country, boasting approximately 1.4 billion people. Following its independence from the British Empire in 1947, India has emerged as one of the globe’s fastest-growing economies. This economic surge has facilitated significant strides in reducing poverty over recent decades. Notably, from 2011 to 2019, the number of citizens grappling with extreme poverty was cut in half. While the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges, India remains on the trajectory of progress.

Similar to poverty, progress toward gender equality in India is visible with the country climbing eight places in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report of 2023. However, overall, in terms of gender equality, India ranks 127th out of 146 countries.

Gender Equality in India

Gender inequality is a widespread issue, not confined to India but prevalent in communities worldwide. It’s a global problem that shares ties with poverty. The United Nations (U.N.) recognized this, making gender equality one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in 2015. These goals aim to “end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.” The challenge of gender inequality is a shared concern that demands collective efforts for a more equitable and sustainable future.

Achieving gender equality in India is a significant challenge that starts affecting individuals from birth. Unfortunately, India stands out as the only country where girls face a lower chance of survival at birth and encounter developmental disparities in childhood. To sustain its progress, it appears India needs to empower individuals of all genders, ensuring equal opportunities for prosperity. This inclusive approach is crucial for fostering a more equitable and progressive society.

Women’s Reservation Bill

In late September 2023, Indian legislators overwhelmingly approved the Women’s Reservation Bill with minimal dissent in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, the lower and upper houses of the Indian Parliament, respectively. The bill advocates for a minimum of 33% representation of women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative assemblies. If implemented, this would mark an approximate 10% increase in the current representation of women in the Lok Sabha.

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, the second female president of India, has assented to the Women’s Reservation Bill. As such the bill has become law and shall be in place for a minimum of 15 years. The enactment of this law not only ensures that the women of today are given a voice and the opportunity to be empowered leaders in their own day-to-day lives but also ensures that future women maintain that same right. However, there is still further progress to be made with the bill only being effective in the Lok Sabha, the lower parliamentary house.

The Ripple Effect

India is not alone in taking this step toward gender equality, with 64 other countries also implementing similar legislation, one such country being Rwanda. In 2003, Rwanda included in its constitution an allocation of 30% of elected positions for women in parliament. Currently, this has evolved into women occupying 64% of all parliamentary seats and Rwanda emerging as a leading force in gender equality. Such quotas significantly empower women.

What’s Next?

Addressing gender equality is crucial for India’s overall progress. The recent passage of the bill marks a significant step forward. Similar to the positive changes observed in Rwanda, this move is expected to catalyze further strides toward gender equality in India. Without tackling these issues, the nation risks reaching a progression plateau. The bill’s enactment signals a commitment to fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive.

– Holly Coop
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