What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India? Discuss the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard?

Gender Inequality is a grave challenge that afflicts India and persists to disempower half its population. Dr. Ambedkar rightly said that the status of a society is best understood by seeing how women in that society are treated.

Factors responsible for gender inequality in India:

1. Patriarchy: which lies at the root of gender inequality and is intertwined with the social fabric of society.

2. Orthodox traditions: like dowry, purdah, etc. which undermine the position of women.

3. Inequity in access to health and education services.

4. Son meta preference, as noted in the Economic survey determined by the sex ratio of the last child.

5. Low labour force participation rate.

6. Lack of autonomy and decision making.

Contributions of Savitribai Phule: 

1. She was India’s first female teacher who worked for the upliftment of women and untouchables in the field of education and literacy.

2. Along with Jyotirao Phule, founded the first school for girls called Bhide Wada in Pune, in 1948

3. Started the Literacy Mission in India between 1854-55

4. Started Mahila Seva Mandal in 1852, which worked for raising women’s consciousness about their human rights, dignity and other social issues.

5. First ever Infanticide prohibition home of India was started by her in 1853.

Gender Inequality is a painful reality that must be addressed through collective efforts, gender neutral socialisation, equality of opportunity and providing women a chance for effective economic participation in the economy. Women leaders like Savitribai Phule, Aruna Asaf Ali, Sarojini Naidu, Indira Gandhi, Falguni Nayar, Indira Nooyi, Phogat sisters should inspire us.