Women have played a vital role in shaping the history and society of India. From fighting for their rights and freedom to breaking the glass ceiling in various fields, women have made significant contributions to India's development. The topic of the role of women and women's organizations is an essential part of the UPSC Syllabus and requires aspirants to have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by women in India. This Page delivers all the most recent UPSC Current Affairs related to “Role of Women and Women's Organizations in India” part of UPSC Mains GS1 Paper part of the Syllabus which is also useful for UPSC Prelims 2023.

FAQs

Question. What is the role of women in achieving social justice?

Question. How do women’s organizations contribute to social justice?

Question. What are the challenges faced by women’s organizations in India?

Question. Which key government initiatives support women’s empowerment in India?

Question. How does education empower women to address social justice issues?

MCQs

1. Which of the following schemes focuses on the welfare of the girl child in India?

A) Beti Bachao Beti Padhao

B) PM-KISAN

C) Ujjwala Yojana

D) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana

2. What is the primary goal of the Mahila E-Haat initiative?

A) Education for women

B) Online marketing for women entrepreneurs

C) Health and hygiene awareness

D) Legal aid for women

3. Which act addresses sexual harassment of women at the workplace?

A) Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

B) The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961

C) Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013

D) Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961

4. What is the focus of the Ujjwala Yojana scheme?

A) Free LPG connections to women from below-poverty-line households

B) Promotion of women's education

C) Financial independence through loans

D) Providing maternity benefits

5. Which constitutional article ensures equal pay for equal work for women?

A) Article 14

B) Article 39(d)

C) Article 42

D) Article 51A

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the role of women’s organizations in addressing social issues in India.

Answer: Women’s organizations address issues like gender-based violence, education, and economic inequality. They provide platforms for advocacy, legal aid, and rehabilitation. Organizations like SEWA and NFIW promote self-reliance, while grassroots initiatives tackle regional challenges. They also influence policy reforms to strengthen women’s rights.

Q2: Analyze the impact of government schemes on women’s empowerment in India.

Answer: Schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Ujjwala Yojana, and MUDRA have improved women’s access to education, health, and financial resources. While these initiatives have empowered women economically and socially, challenges like patriarchal norms and unequal access still persist, requiring sustained efforts.

Q3: What measures can strengthen the role of women in achieving social justice?

Answer: Measures include promoting education, skill development, and political participation of women. Strengthening women-centric policies, combating gender biases, ensuring equal pay, and increasing funding for women’s organizations are crucial. Grassroots movements can also amplify women's voices in decision-making.

Previous Year Questions on Women and Social Justice

1. UPSC CSE 2018

Question: Which of the following schemes is associated with promoting women's entrepreneurship?

Answer: Mahila E-Haat is an initiative aimed at providing an online marketing platform for women entrepreneurs, helping them achieve financial independence.

2. UPSC CSE 2021

Question: "Women’s empowerment is key to achieving inclusive growth in India." Discuss.

Answer: Women’s empowerment ensures economic, social, and political inclusivity. By promoting education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, women contribute significantly to national development. However, gender inequalities and social barriers need to be addressed for holistic growth.