Table of Contents

Introduction to the Report

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the “Women and Men in India 2024” report, an annual publication that presents gender-disaggregated data on key social and economic indicators. This comprehensive document is a valuable tool for students, policymakers, and researchers preparing for various government competitive exams, including UPSC, SSC, and State PSCs.

Gender Disparities Highlighted Across Sectors

The report provides insights into disparities and progress in fields such as education, health, employment, political participation, and decision-making. It focuses on understanding how men and women fare in different spheres and identifies areas that need policy intervention. The data helps identify the gender gaps that persist in employment rates, literacy levels, healthcare access, and representation in governance.

Key Statistics on Education and Literacy

In education, the report reveals growing female literacy rates, although still slightly behind male counterparts. It notes improvements in female enrolment in secondary and higher education, especially in urban areas. This is crucial for policymakers and education departments to frame gender-responsive education policies.

Employment and Workforce Participation

One of the major highlights includes female labour force participation, which remains significantly lower than male participation. The report mentions that only about 25% of women are part of the labour force, compared to over 70% for men. Gender wage gaps and underrepresentation in high-paying sectors also continue to be challenges.

Representation in Decision-Making Roles

The report stresses low representation of women in Parliament and corporate leadership. While the recent Women’s Reservation Bill shows progress, data still reflects slow advancement in top decision-making positions, both in politics and administration.

Health and Safety Indicators

In health, the report captures improvements in maternal mortality rates and institutional births, yet also underlines persistent concerns like gender-based violence and access to reproductive healthcare. The data encourages stronger implementation of gender-sensitive health policies.

Why this News is Important

Crucial for Policy Making and Gender Equality

This report is vital for framing evidence-based gender policies across ministries and state departments. With gender equality being a central theme in national development agendas, this annual publication enables stakeholders to track progress and gaps.

Important for Competitive Exam Preparation

For students preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government exams, questions related to gender statistics, reports by MoSPI, and current government efforts on women’s empowerment are frequently asked. Hence, knowledge of this report enhances exam readiness.

Historical Context

The “Women and Men in India” series was first introduced in 1995 and has since been published annually by MoSPI. The aim was to provide reliable, up-to-date, and gender-disaggregated statistics that support gender planning and development efforts. Over the years, the report has evolved, reflecting changing societal patterns and serving as a benchmark document for gender analysis in India.

Key Takeaways from “Women and Men in India 2024 Report”

S. No	Key Takeaway
1	The report is published by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
2	It highlights gender disparities in education, employment, health, and governance.
3	Female labour force participation remains low at around 25%.
4	Literacy rates among women are increasing but still lag behind men.
5	The report is crucial for gender policy formulation and exam preparation.

women and men in india report

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the “Women and Men in India” report?

It is an annual statistical publication by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), providing gender-disaggregated data on key socio-economic indicators in India.

2. Who publishes the “Women and Men in India” report?

The report is published by MoSPI (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation), Government of India.

3. Why is this report important for government exam preparation?

The report offers reliable data that often forms the basis of questions in UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, and Banking exams, especially those focusing on gender, statistics, and national development indicators.