Research Paper On Gender Equality

Gender equality is a basic human right and Social justice is the key stone of the Indian Constitution. One facet of it is gender justice, which is a composite concept. It is the human right of women. The principle of gender equality is enshrined in the Indian Constitution, in its preamble, fundamental rights, fundamental duties and directive principles. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) too affirms the ideal of equal rights of men and women. The U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (1979) observes that discrimination against women violates the principles of equality of rights and respect for human dignity. '

The meaning and content of the fundamental rights guaranteed in the Constitution

The common minimum requirement of this right has received global acceptance. The International Conventions and norms are, therefore, of great significance in the formulation of the guidelines to achieve this purpose.

Gender relations need to be measured in the context of participation in and sharing of the important decision-making process that .results in the above inequalities. Such a measure would help identify the differing degrees of inequality in terms of age, income levels and geographical location. For Governments and concerned citizens seeking to redress these inequalities, indices are a means of determining the issues on which they must concentrate, and provide feedback on the effectiveness of their actions. Clearly, then the accuracy of any measure of gender inequality needs close scrutiny.

There has been some progress in the-field of gender equality since 1985, but much less than what was expected. Women 's ability to bear children means they are expected to take responsibility for domestic Work worldwide. But housework is everywhere invisible and

The Government has done little to take on board these obstacles, apart from occasional and irregular campaigns around single issues like dowry ', girl child education, amniocentesis and so on. Policy education campaigns are restricted to occasional posters and T.V. spots, but are not consistent or backed up by strong and clear action by the State. Their impact remains less than effective, particularly since there is little action taken against advertising or campaigns that ' are