Role of Gender Equality and Empowerment for Viksit Bharat@2047

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20209489

Abstract

Gender equality and women’s empowerment stand as central pillars in the vision of Developed India @ 2047, which aspires to make India a fully developed, inclusive, and equitable nation by its centenary of independence. This research paper explores the role of gender equality as a driver of economic growth, social progress, and sustainable governance. It analyses India’s progress in gender empowerment through education, employment, health, and political participation while identifying persistent structural and cultural barriers. The study further highlights key policy frameworks such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and the Women’s Reservation Bill (2023), alongside recommendations for strengthening institutional mechanisms and inclusive growth. Drawing upon reports from the World Bank, National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and Government of India policy documents, this paper emphasizes that gender equality is not merely a moral imperative but an economic necessity for realizing the vision of Developed India by 2047.

Keywords: Gender equality, women’s empowerment, economic development, India 2047, policy framework, NEP 2020, SDG 5