By Dipak Kurmi
The passage of the long-overdue Women’s Reservation Bill in the Indian Parliament marks a watershed moment in the nation’s history. A triumph not merely of legislative reform but of an unyielding spirit, this moment signifies the culmination of years of struggle, resilience, and unwavering determination by Indian women. The bill’s passage is not just a political milestone; it is an acknowledgment of the invaluable role that women play in shaping the country’s social, economic, and political landscapes. However, it is imperative to ensure that its implementation is not indefinitely delayed by bureaucratic constraints such as census data and delimitation exercises.
For centuries, Indian women have faced entrenched discrimination, systemic marginalization, and persistent violence. Yet, despite the adversities, they have continually fought for their rightful place in society, scripting narratives of change and transformation. Their participation in the workforce, governance, and entrepreneurial ventures remains key to realizing India’s demographic dividend. As the nation boasts one of the youngest populations globally, harnessing the full potential of its human capital requires the active involvement of women in every sphere. Empowering women through education, employment, and leadership positions will not only foster economic growth but also enhance India’s global stature as a responsible and inclusive power.
Despite India’s economic strides, gender disparity in political representation remains glaringly evident. The “UN: Women in Politics Report 2023” places India at the 140th rank globally, with a mere 15% female presence in the Lok Sabha and 13.8% in the Rajya Sabha. Women constitute an average of only 9% of state legislative assemblies. These figures underscore the urgency of the Women’s Reservation Bill, not just as a political necessity but as an instrument for broader societal transformation. More women in decision-making roles foster governance that is more empathetic, inclusive, and representative of diverse perspectives. Yet, the bill’s delayed implementation dampens the momentum it sought to generate, reinforcing the need for immediate action.
Beyond political representation, gender parity is crucial for sustainable development. The three fundamental pillars of sustainability—economic, social, and environmental—are inextricably linked to gender equality. A study by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) suggests that doubling the female workforce participation rate could propel India’s GDP growth from 7.5% to 9%. More than economic expansion, gender inclusivity aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in eradicating poverty, ensuring quality education, and promoting sustainable industrialization.
Corporate India has taken strides toward gender diversity, particularly following amendments to the Companies Act in 2013 that mandated the inclusion of at least one woman on the board of listed firms. Today, over 4,700 women directors serve across 3,200 listed companies, elevating female board representation to 18% as of 2022. However, these advancements remain insufficient in dismantling deeply ingrained biases. Women’s representation at executive levels must go beyond tokenism and translate into genuine participation in decision-making. Simultaneously, the alarming statistic that fewer than 20% of Indian women are engaged in paid employment compared to over 70% of men underscores the urgent need for systemic reform.
Women also bear the disproportionate burden of unpaid labour, a contribution that remains invisible in conventional economic metrics. Their unpaid caregiving roles underpin both social and economic structures, yet they receive little to no recognition. This hidden engine of economic growth calls for policy interventions, including wage recognition, social security benefits, and robust labour laws, to bridge this inequality gap.
Moreover, women are natural leaders in climate action and sustainability. Across the globe, they spearhead grassroots conservation efforts and pioneering renewable energy projects. Research indicates that economically empowered women are more inclined to invest in sustainable practices, prioritizing long-term community well-being. India must capitalize on this potential by integrating gender-responsive strategies into climate policies and economic frameworks.
The discourse on gender equality is not merely about inclusion but about embracing the transformative power of women-led development. Feminist organizations and grassroots movements have long been at the forefront of advocating for systemic change, yet they receive a mere 0.13% of total official development assistance. This chronic underfunding stifles their ability to challenge entrenched patriarchal structures and drive meaningful change. Strengthening financial support for these movements is imperative to accelerating progress.
Preserving Cultural Heritage: Women as Custodians of Tradition
Beyond governance and economics, Indian women have played an instrumental role in preserving and propagating the nation’s rich cultural heritage. Classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Kathakali stand as testaments to artistic excellence, storytelling, and devotion. These age-old traditions, deeply rooted in mythology and folklore, have been safeguarded by generations of women who have dedicated their lives to artistic expression.
Recognizing the significance of cultural preservation, the Indian government has actively incorporated traditional arts into global diplomacy. Initiatives such as International Yoga Day and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas have positioned Indian cultural heritage at the global forefront. Additionally, the Roots 2 Routes initiative, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and 60 embassies worldwide, is fostering international engagement with Indian classical dance forms. Through online courses in Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, the initiative seeks to reinvigorate interest among younger generations and expand accessibility to these art forms.
In an era where modernity threatens to overshadow tradition, leveraging digital platforms for education and performance is vital in ensuring the longevity of these cultural treasures. As we commemorate Women’s Day, it is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of women artists in keeping these traditions alive. Their creative expressions serve as a bridge between the past and the present, reinforcing cultural identity while fostering social cohesion.
The Call for Immediate Action
As the world observes International Women’s Day 2024 under the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” the urgency of gender equality has never been clearer. The COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical instability, and climate crises have exacerbated socio-economic inequalities, disproportionately impacting women and girls. Shockingly, over 75 million people have plunged into severe poverty since 2020, with women forming the majority of those affected. If systemic reforms are not enacted, an estimated 342 million women and girls will remain below the poverty line by 2030.
Investing in women is not just an economic imperative but a moral necessity. It is about building societies where human rights and social justice take precedence. In the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, “Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home.” The time for performative gestures is over; what India and the world need now is decisive, tangible action. From governance and corporate boardrooms to cultural preservation and climate leadership, the active participation of women is the cornerstone of sustainable and equitable progress.
The journey towards gender parity is far from complete, but the momentum gained must not be lost. By ensuring timely implementation of policies, dismantling systemic barriers, and fostering an inclusive society, India has the potential to lead by example. The clarion call for gender equality is not just about the advancement of women—it is about the advancement of a nation. And that time is now.
(The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
