Empowering Women: Legal Safeguards and Policy Frameworks

Author:Brijesh Kumar Agarwal, Swati Sharma*

Abstract:
India's distinctive national identity is profoundly shaped by the esteemed position accorded to women throughout its history. Since the Vedic era, Indian society has cultivated a legacy of female empowerment, exemplified by learned scholars like Gargi and Anusuya. This tradition persisted through subsequent epochs, with luminaries such as Ahilyabai Holkar, Rani Lakshmibai, Sucheta Kripalani, Vijayalakshmi Pandit, and Indira Gandhi emerging as iconic figures who have significantly contributed to the nation's progress. Historical evidence consistently demonstrates that women have possessed intellectual capacity, energy, and efficiency on par with men. Nevertheless, their contributions to society have been disproportionately low relative to their population percentage. A primary factor contributing to this disparity is the imposition of various restrictions on women since the post-Vedic era. Pernicious societal practices such as dowry, female infanticide, child marriage, illiteracy, and gender inequality have significantly impeded women's progress and potential, resulting in their marginalization and subjugation to men. Prior to independence, the subordinate status of women was a recognized concern. Numerous initiatives and policies were conceived to elevate women's position within society, yet their implementation fell short of intended objectives. Post-independence India has enacted a series of legislative measures, anchored in the Constitution, aimed at elevating the status of women. While these legal frameworks have undeniably contributed to progress, the challenges persisting in women's empowerment necessitated the implementation of comprehensive government schemes. These initiatives have been instrumental in advancing women's status both within domestic and societal spheres. The consequent economic and social empowerment of women is indicative of India's trajectory towards a progressive and developed future. This paper is an attempt to examine the efficacy of government schemes, policies, and programs designed to foster women's empowerment.

Keywords:Women Empowerment, Women’s Legal Rights, Gender Inequality, Government Schemes.

DOI:10.46333/ijtc/13/1/12

International Journal of Trade & Commerce (Vol: 13 Issue:1)