Hindu Editorial Analysis : 14-February-2024

India has made significant strides in promoting gender equity by establishing the “Global Alliance for Global Good—Gender Equity and Equality.” This initiative was launched during the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum and aims to enhance women’s empowerment globally.

About the Alliance

The alliance is anchored by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Centre for Women Leadership. It is guided by the Minister of Women and Child Development in India and supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The goals of the alliance include:

  • Creating a Global Network: The alliance will connect experts, think-tanks, and leaders from various industries and countries.
  • Driving Collective Action: It will focus on collaborative efforts to empower women and build on commitments made in the G20 Leaders’ Declaration.

Importance of the Alliance

Women are crucial to the progress of society. Without their empowerment, societal growth stagnates. Key reasons for supporting women’s advancement include:

  • Economic Growth: Empowering women boosts economic development.
  • Education Access: Women’s education leads to global progress.
  • Inclusivity: Women in leadership roles foster a more inclusive society.
  • Positive Change: Women’s voices inspire transformative actions.

The Global Alliance aims to gather best practices, share knowledge, and attract investments in critical areas such as:

  • Women’s health
  • Education
  • Entrepreneurship

Reasons for Achieving Gender Parity

Achieving gender parity is vital for several reasons:

  • Human Rights and Equality: Everyone deserves equal opportunities, regardless of gender.
  • Social Justice: Tackling gender inequality promotes fairness and dignity.
  • Economic Growth: Gender diversity enhances innovation and performance in businesses.
  • Improved Governance: Inclusive decision-making leads to better policies.
  • Health and Education: Equal access improves outcomes for all.
  • Social Stability: Greater gender equality fosters social harmony.
  • Role Modelling: Achieving parity sets positive examples for future generations.
  • Global Development Goals: Gender equality is crucial for international development objectives.

Issues and Challenges

Despite progress, several challenges remain:

  • Economic Inequalities: Development models have led to significant inequalities globally.
  • Digital Divide: Women face barriers in accessing technology.
  • Government Investment: Decreasing funding for women’s initiatives is concerning.
  • Climate Crisis: Women disproportionately bear the brunt of climate challenges.
  • Entrepreneurship Barriers: Women entrepreneurs encounter more obstacles than men.

Related Steps by India

The Government of India has prioritized gender equality for over a decade. Key initiatives include:

  • Women’s Reservation Bill: This ensures a third of seats in Parliament and State Assemblies are reserved for women.
  • Gender Budget: In 2023-24, nearly $27 billion was allocated to support women-led development.
  • Stand-Up India: This program promotes entrepreneurship among women and marginalized groups, with 80% of beneficiaries being women.
  • Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY): Providing loans to small enterprises, with about 70% of loans going to women entrepreneurs.
  • G20 Working Group: India has established a new working group focused on women’s empowerment.

Why In News

India has successfully established the “Global Alliance for Global Good—Gender Equity and Equality” during the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, marking a pivotal moment in the global commitment to advancing gender equality and empowering women worldwide.

MCQs about Global Alliance

  1. What is the primary goal of the Global Alliance for Global Good—Gender Equity and Equality established by India?
    A. Promote economic growth in developed countries
    B. Enhance gender equality and empower women globally
    C. Increase technological advancements
    D. Strengthen international trade relations
    Correct Answer: B. Enhance gender equality and empower women globally
    Explanation: The alliance aims to bring together global efforts to support women’s empowerment and gender equality across different societies.
  2. Which organization supports the Global Alliance for Global Good?
    A. United Nations
    B. Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
    C. World Bank
    D. International Monetary Fund
    Correct Answer: B. Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
    Explanation: The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is one of the key supporters of the alliance, providing guidance and resources to advance its mission.
  3. What percentage of beneficiaries under the Stand-Up India initiative are women?
    A. 50%
    B. 70%
    C. 80%
    D. 90%
    Correct Answer: C. 80%
    Explanation: Stand-Up India aims to promote entrepreneurship among women and marginalized groups, with 80% of its beneficiaries being women.
  4. Which of the following is a key challenge facing women’s advancement globally?
    A. Increasing literacy rates
    B. Gender-based digital divide
    C. Higher employment rates for women
    D. Improved healthcare access
    Correct Answer: B. Gender-based digital divide
    Explanation: The gender-based digital divide creates significant barriers for women, limiting their access to technology and opportunities for growth.

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