Women’s safety and empowerment remain high on India’s social agenda, with ongoing protests across the country demanding stronger action against gender-based violence. The latest wave of protests follows high-profile cases of sexual violence and harassment, with the public pushing for more robust legal frameworks, faster judicial processes, and improved law enforcement.
The government has responded by announcing stricter laws for crimes against women and increasing surveillance in high-risk areas, particularly in urban centers. Special courts for the speedy trial of sexual assault cases have been set up in several states, while new safety protocols, such as emergency helplines and police patrols, are being implemented in major cities. However, critics argue that while these measures are important, the implementation of laws remains inconsistent, particularly in rural areas where patriarchal norms still dominate.
Alongside safety concerns, the empowerment of women in education and the workforce is a major priority for the Indian government. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child) initiative has made strides in rural areas, where girl children are often the last to receive an education. The scheme focuses on gender sensitization, awareness campaigns, and financial incentives to ensure girls have equal access to education. In urban areas, women’s participation in the workforce is on the rise, but challenges such as unequal pay, lack of childcare facilities, and societal pressure to prioritize home duties continue to hold women back from realizing their full potential in the workforce.
On the education front, India is witnessing a major overhaul through the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP). The NEP seeks to transform the education system by promoting critical thinking, digital learning, and vocational training, aiming to better prepare students for a rapidly changing world. A focus on multilingual education is also part of the NEP, aiming to ensure that education is accessible in multiple regional languages, making it more inclusive. However, challenges remain, particularly in the rural education system, where infrastructure, teacher training, and access to technology remain significant barriers to achieving the policy’s goals.
