Role and Challenges of Women in Society

Tradition and Family Structure: Women have traditionally managed households, cared for families, and played key roles in decision-making within joint families.
Education and Literacy: Increased access to education has improved literacy among women, enabling them to pursue careers and challenge gender roles.
Economic Participation: More women are joining the workforce in sectors like education, healthcare, technology, and business, gaining financial independence and improving their status.
Political Empowerment: Women are actively participating in politics, with reserved seats in local governments helping them influence decision-making.
Social and Cultural Contributions: Women have enriched India’s arts, literature, music, and media, breaking stereotypes and promoting gender inclusivity.
Advocacy and Social Change: Women’s movements have raised awareness about gender issues, fought discrimination, and pushed for legal reforms against violence, dowry, and child marriage.
Community and Social Welfare: Women contribute to community development through self-help groups, microfinance, and welfare programs, uplifting marginalized communities.

Social and Cultural Barriers:
- Patriarchy: Traditional norms limit women’s decision-making power.
- Stereotypes: Women are often confined to household roles.
- Son Preference: Gender bias leads to discrimination against girls.
Safety and Security:
- Violence: Women face domestic abuse, harassment, and honor killings.
- Unsafe Public Spaces: Lack of security makes public areas unsafe for women.
Education and Economic Empowerment:
- Education Gap: Rural areas still have lower female literacy rates.
- Job Discrimination: Women face wage gaps and fewer job opportunities.
- Limited Resources: Women have less access to land, credit, and business support.
Health and Reproductive Rights:
- Maternal Health: High maternal mortality rates need urgent attention.
- Malnutrition: Unequal food distribution affects women’s nutrition.
- Limited Autonomy: Menstrual hygiene and reproductive rights remain sensitive issues.
Emerging Challenges:
- Digital Divide: Limited access to technology marginalizes women.
- Climate Change: Women are more vulnerable to its effects on food, water, and livelihoods.