Unveiling India's Impactful Strategies for Achieving SDG 5: Gender Equality

"Hello everyone! Today, we're excited to discuss an important topic: understanding SDG5 and India's commitment towards SDG 5. Before we begin.

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Written By: Dr. Swetha Talluri

What are SDG's?

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) constitute a set of seventeen interconnected objectives aimed at achieving a sustainable future for all. They adopt a holistic and multidimensional approach to development, intending to transform our planet by addressing various challenges faced by humanity. The SDGs are an essential component of all aspects of inclusive and long-term growth (Jameel et al., 2022).

In 2015, the UN General Assembly established the Sustainable Development Goals, accepted globally by all UN member nations as a call to conserve the Earth, ensure harmony, prosperity, and peace for all, and eradicate poverty. All seventeen of these interrelated goals are integrated (Jameel et al., 2022). The 17 SDGs and 169 targets form part of the transformational framework known as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, endorsed by 193 Member States at the UN General Assembly (India.UN.org).

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were initially outlined during the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro. The purpose of the initiative was to establish goals addressing the most pressing economic, political, and environmental concerns. Consequently, the SDGs replaced the previously planned MDGs, established in 2000. The 17 interconnected goals were created to address various elements, such as improving the climate, promoting gender equality, eradicating poverty, and fostering economic development (Jameel et al., 2022).

What is SDG 5?

The objective of SDG-5 is to empower all women and girls and achieve gender equality. Gender equality is recognized as a human right and is deemed crucial for the accomplishment of all goals in the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. The goal seeks to promote gender equality by eliminating all forms of discrimination, violence, and harmful behaviors against women and girls (Eurostat, 2023). Gender equality is viewed as both a fundamental human right and an essential foundation for long-term development. In essence, SDG-5 concentrates on achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls but does not specifically mention equality for other genders.

Is India committed to SDG 5?

With its vibrant cultural fabric and diverse demographics, India remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG-5), which focuses on "empowering both women and girls to achieve equality with men." SDG-5 stands as a crucial element within the broader Sustainable Development Goals, embodying a comprehensive and integrated approach to the challenges facing humanity (United Nations in India Annual Report, 2022).

India's dedication to SDG-5 takes a holistic approach, encompassing aspects of women's empowerment. Recognizing the significance of gender equality for sustainable development, the government has initiated projects and policies in education, health, economic opportunities, and legal frameworks. Nevertheless, gender-based discrimination remains a significant issue that needs immediate attention in India (UNDP Annual Report, 2022).

When did India commit to SDG 5, and what were the reasons and methods behind this commitment?

India's commitment to the SDGs aligns with its national development plan, as reflected in the phrase "Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas" (Collective Effort, Inclusive Growth) (ANINEWS, 2020). The government has embraced the SDGs as a framework for both national and subnational development initiatives. On the front of progress monitoring, the SDG India Index & Dashboard, established and produced by NITI Aayog, serves as the official and primary tool for monitoring SDG progress at the national and subnational levels (HLPF, 2022).

In conclusion, India has pledged to the SDGs to enhance the standard of living for its people, focusing on expanding access to sanitary facilities and clean water. This commitment is evident through various collaborations, data-driven strategies, and policy efforts.

What fundamental approach does India rely on to attain gender equality?

Education stands as the cornerstone of India’s pursuit of gender equality. The launch of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao scheme in 2015 exemplifies the government's commitment to eliminating the gender gap in education. This program aims to address gender-biased practices, combat women’s suffrage, and promote girls’ education, ensuring equal educational opportunities for all. Other initiatives introduced by India include “Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana,” “Balika Samriddhi Yojana,” and “CBSE Guidelines/Policies for Girls Education” (Ministry of Women and Child Development, 2015).

The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana is a nationwide project in India dedicated to enhancing the status and welfare of female children. It is jointly managed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Ministry of Human Resources Development, each with its own set of functions and responsibilities under the scheme.

The scheme's primary beneficiaries include young couples, pregnant and nursing mothers, parents, young adults, medical professionals, and other stakeholders. Activities undertaken under the program include providing directions and assistance to States, districts, and stakeholders for monitoring the scheme's administration, consolidating best practices, and organizing training programs. The scheme also involves carrying out advocacy and media campaigns, establishing an online management information system for reporting and monitoring, conducting monthly meetings and reviews of the Pre-Conception and Prenatal Diagnostic Technique Act, focusing on educational activities, forming school administration committees and community forums, and providing rewards and incentives for deserving females. Additionally, the scheme includes advocacy efforts, interventions in gender-sensitive areas, and a cash incentive program known as the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.

What health programs has India implemented in connection with SDG 5?

India's objective extends to promoting women's health and well-being, emphasizing reproductive rights and affordable healthcare. Reproductive rights encompass a set of human rights related to reproductive health and autonomy, encompassing the right to start a family, access birth control, and receive sex education in public institutions. These rights may also entail the right to terminate a pregnancy and access reproductive health treatments, with legal definitions varying globally (findlaw).

Initiatives crafted to raise awareness about women’s health issues and ensure access to quality healthcare contribute to greater societal equity. Addressing the unique challenges faced by women in healthcare, India aims to dismantle structural barriers contributing to persistent gender inequality (N. B. Sarojini et al., 2006).

A study has also revealed that while the likelihood of UFM significantly decreases with age, low awareness, resource scarcity, and underutilization of family planning services may potentially contribute to the high parity of UFMR. Furthermore, UFMR shows a negative correlation with variables such as breastfeeding, literacy, C-section deliveries, and IFA intake, aligning with the findings of previous studies (Nikita Gaur et al., 2023).

• UFM: Under-five mortality is defined as “the probability of dying after birth till the age of five per 1000 live births and is used as an indicator of socio-economic development in a developing country” (Gaur N, et.,al, 2023).

• UFMR: Under five mortality rates as defined here is strictly speaking not a rate (i.e. the number of deaths divided by the number of populations at risk during a certain period of time) but a probability of death derived from a life table and expressed as rate per 1000 live births (Gaur N, et.al, 2023).

• IFA: Iron folic acid tablet – Administered to prevent and treat anemia (Gaur N, et.al, 2023)

What specific challenges and barriers do women encounter within healthcare systems?

Women in India face various challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare facilities. Some of the current issues include:

• Lack of Accessibility: Women in rural areas may have limited access to healthcare services, requiring them to travel significant distances to the nearest facility. This poses challenges and can be both physically and financially burdensome.

• Lack of Affordability: The cost of healthcare services can be impractical for many Indian women, especially those in low-income households. The high costs associated with these services may hinder their ability to seek necessary medical care.

• Gender Bias: Discrimination and bias against women in healthcare settings can hinder their access to essential care. This may manifest as stern attitudes from healthcare personnel and a lack of awareness about women's health issues.

• Lack of Awareness: Many women in India may be unaware of their rights and available healthcare options, leading to delays in seeking help when needed (Satveit S., 2018).

Additional Barriers:

Taboos and Sociocultural Barriers:

• Barriers at the Community Level: These include poor information and awareness, stigma and discrimination, out-of-pocket expenses, and individual household poverty, identified as the main causes of barriers to women's right to health.

Obstacles Pertaining to the Health System:

• Poor Screening Facilities: Inadequate screening facilities contribute to obstacles in accessing healthcare.

• Insufficient Resources at Primary Centers: Challenges related to health facilities, including insufficient resources at primary centers, further contribute to barriers (Alok et al., 2023).

Addressing the unique challenges faced by women in healthcare, India aims to break down the structural barriers that contribute to persistent gender inequality (N. B. Sarojini et.al., 2006). 

What robust legal reforms and policies has India enacted to address gender-based discrimination and violence?

Acts such as the Domestic Violence Act of 2005, the Marriage Act, and the Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Act of 2012 demonstrate the state's commitment to providing a safe environment for women. Programs like "One Stop Centres" and "Ujjwala" reaffirm the government's dedication to combating all forms of discrimination and violence against women (Subramanian SV et al., 2021).

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act of 2005 stands as a crucial piece of Indian legislation aimed at safeguarding women from various forms of domestic violence. Its pros include a broader definition of domestic violence (encompassing abuse beyond physical violence), protection for women in domestic relationships, and the ability to obtain protective orders, monetary redress, and access to shelter houses and medical facilities. However, implementation issues, such as a lack of knowledge and access to resources, limit its effectiveness (Wikimedia Foundation, 2023).

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, is a critical component of Indian legislation designed to protect women against sexual harassment at work. Its pros include complete protection, broad coverage, and the establishment of complaint resolution systems. However, the cons involve issues such as lack of compliance, inefficient execution, and the burden of evidence on the complainant, hindering its effectiveness (Wikimedia Foundation, 2024).

• The One Stop Centre (OSC) initiative provides medical, legal, and psychological support for women who have experienced abuse. Financed by the Nirbhaya Fund, it is integrated with existing helplines such as 181.

• Ujjawala aims to combat the commercial sexual exploitation of women and children through trafficking (Ministry of Women & Child Development, One Stop Centres, n.d.).
  

What are the current challenges in effectively implementing additional laws and policies pertaining to SDG5?

Despite significant progress, challenges persist. The 2023 Gender Inequality Index (GII) report focuses on areas necessitating improvement, such as maternal mortality and women’s participation in decision-making, underscoring the importance of identifying these challenges for effective strategies (GII, 2023). Factors contributing to maternal mortality and women’s limited participation in decision-making include women's lack of decision-making authority, delays in seeking skilled medical care, societal prejudices, and barriers to political empowerment (Dhatt R, et.al., 2017). Addressing these challenges requires empowering women, promoting gender equality, and ensuring their active involvement in decision-making processes.

India's objectives extend to women’s health and well-being, with a focus on reproductive rights and accessible healthcare. Reproductive rights encompass human rights related to reproductive health and autonomy, including access to birth control, sex education, and the option of terminating a pregnancy (findlaw). However, India's healthcare system has not kept pace with its economic growth. With just 2.9% of total government expenditure allocated to healthcare, India's healthcare spending lags behind that of other nations. Moreover, the majority of healthcare expenditure in India is out-of-pocket, leaving households vulnerable to financial strain, particularly in rural areas (Ghia C, et al., 2023).

Initiatives aimed at raising awareness about women’s health issues and ensuring access to quality healthcare contribute to greater societal equity. However, women in India face numerous barriers, including lack of accessibility, affordability, awareness, and gender bias (Satveit S., 2018). Other challenges include sociocultural barriers, stigma and discrimination, household poverty, and inadequacies in the healthcare system (Alok, et al., 2023). By addressing these challenges, India aims to dismantle structural barriers contributing to persistent gender inequality (N. B. Sarojini et.al., 2006).

Efforts to reduce Under-Five Mortality Rate in India highlight the importance of factors such as maternal age, breastfeeding, literacy, and access to healthcare services (Nikita Gaur et.al., 2023). Additionally, India has implemented several legislations and initiatives to empower women and address gender inequality, including the National Policy for Women (2016), Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme, Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013), and National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) (WCD). These efforts underscore India's commitment to women's empowerment and gender equality, although further action is necessary to address persistent challenges (National Rural Livelihoods Mission).

Identifying ongoing challenges in achieving gender equality in India is essential for informed policymaking, effective intervention implementation, and targeted resource allocation. It lays the groundwork for developing gender-sensitive policies, monitoring progress, and advocating for change to address the root causes of gender disparity.

India's commitment to SDG-5 underscores a concerted effort to foster a society devoid of gender inequality, enabling women to excel across all domains of life. Embracing a comprehensive approach encompassing education, healthcare, legal reforms, and the indispensable contributions of organizations, India strides towards progress. As the nation endeavors to fulfill the SDGs pertaining to gender equality, this collaborative endeavor aspires to forge a future wherein every individual, irrespective of gender, enjoys a life free from discrimination and violence.

Want the references for this article? 

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