Introduction

Gender discrimination refers to unequal treatment or perceptions based on an individual’s gender. In India, despite constitutional guarantees of equality under Article 14 and 15, gender discrimination remains deeply entrenched in society and continues to hinder the nation’s progress.

Causes of Gender Discrimination

The roots of gender discrimination lie in patriarchy, traditional norms, and cultural beliefs. Preference for male children, unequal education opportunities, and early marriage are common in many parts of India. Even in urban areas, women face workplace bias, wage gaps, and limited leadership roles. According to NFHS-5, while female literacy and health indicators have improved, disparities still exist, especially in rural and marginalized communities.

Forms of Gender Discrimination/How Gender Discrimination Manifests Itself

Gender discrimination in India manifests in various forms:

• Education: Girls often receive less encouragement to pursue higher education. According to UDISE+ 2022–23, the Gross Enrollment Ratio for girls in higher secondary education is 53.1%, compared to 59.7% for boys.
• Employment: Women face wage gaps, limited leadership roles, and workplace bias. As per the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023, female labour force participation rate is 37%, much lower than 76% for males.
• Wage Gap: The Global Gender Gap Report 2024 by the World Economic Forum ranks India 127th out of 146 countries, reflecting persistent income inequality and low economic participation by women.
• Healthcare: Women may receive less access to medical care, especially in rural areas.
• Violence: Domestic violence, sexual harassment, and gender-based crimes remain serious issues.
• Political Representation: Women are underrepresented in decision-making roles. Women represent just 15% of the Lok Sabha and 12% of the Rajya Sabha.
  Impact on National Progress
  These inequalities are not just moral concerns; they directly impact national progress. Studies by the World Bank and McKinsey suggest that closing the gender gap could add trillions to India’s GDP. Discrimination hinders the full utilization of human capital, slows economic growth, and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Discrimination also affects sectors like health, education, and governance, creating an unbalanced and unjust society.

Government Initiatives
Schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, POSH Act, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, and the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act aim to bridge gender gaps. However, effective implementation and social awareness remain challenges.

Way Forward
Removing gender discrimination boosts national progress by increasing women’s participation in education, jobs, and leadership, leading to higher economic growth and social development. To achieve this, we must enforce gender-equality laws, promote awareness, ensure equal opportunities, and change patriarchal mindsets through education and media. Empowering women creates a stronger, more inclusive, and balanced nation.

Conclusion
Gender discrimination is not just a social injustice—it is a roadblock to India’s full progress. A truly progressive India can only emerge when men and women have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from national growth.