Ques 1.

According to World Economic Forum report, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, closing the
gender gap will now take 135.6 years, instead of 99.5 years prior to COVID-19. So far, India has
managed to close only 62.5% of its gender gap.

At Nikore Associates, you will work on identifying challenges and opportunities to improve women’s
cultural, economic and social experiences. In this context, build at least one policy recommendation
you would like to see implemented to close the gender gap in India. (500 words)

Ans-

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated gender gaps, with women facing new barriers and
setbacks in various sectors. Lockdown measures and rapid digitalization have particularly
impacted sectors where women were predominantly employed, while additional caregiving
responsibilities during the lockdown have further burdened women. To address these
challenges, it is crucial to examine the Global Gender Gap Index, which provides insights into
sectors requiring improvement for effective solutions.

Policy recommendations based on the dimensions of the Global Gender Gap Index can help
close the gender gap in India. In terms of economic participation and opportunity, the
government should introduce economic reforms focusing on gender inclusion. This includes
allocating resources and opportunities for women to access markets and financial assets,
amending labour laws to enhance female employment in the formal sector, and providing
supportive policies for training and self-employment opportunities.

To address educational attainment, efforts must be made to tackle low literacy rates and
limited access to education. Existing initiatives such as "Beti Bachao and Beti Padhao Yojana"
and "Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana" should be implemented effectively, but there is a need for
widespread awareness and improved policy implementation. Policies should focus on
promoting higher education and economic opportunities for girls, as education plays a vital
role in breaking the cycle of educational disparity and ensuring future generations are
educated.
Socio-cultural factors contribute to women's health disparities in India, including unequal
power dynamics, physical and emotional violence, and limited access to healthcare. Policies
should prioritize women's health by providing free or affordable medical facilities, especially
for economically disadvantaged women. Specific insurance schemes can be implemented to
support women's health and raise awareness about self-care practices.

Political empowerment is crucial for women's development and progress.

Underrepresentation of women in decision-making positions is influenced by economic,
religious, social, and cultural factors. Policies should focus on empowering women,
promoting independence, self-reliance, and increasing their participation in decision-making
processes. Initiatives should include improving higher education opportunities for women
and challenging orthodox beliefs that hinder women's inclusion in decision-making roles.
Additionally, creating safe spaces for women in politics and implementing laws mandating a
required percentage of women's participation can enhance political parity and
representation.

In conclusion, a comprehensive approach involving education, awareness, and policy

reforms is necessary to address the gender gap in India. By prioritizing economic reforms,
educational attainment, women's health, and political empowerment, significant progress
can be made in achieving gender equality and inclusivity.