India celebrates remarkable strides in gender representation in the Aviation Sector, Surpassing the global average with over 15% women Pilots. The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) for girls in Primary and Secondary Education is nearly at par with that of boys, and the presence of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) stands at an impressive 43%, one of the highest globally. With homes approved in the names of nearly 40 million women, PM Awas Yojana actively involves women in financial decision-making, aligning with the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative.
In the recent interim budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the pivotal role of women was emphasized, with a focus on empowerment across various aspects:
Enhanced Participation in Higher Education:
The budget outlines a substantial increase in women’s enrollment in higher education, reaching a commendable 28%, indicating progress toward gender parity in academic pursuits.
Strong Representation in STEM Programs:
India has achieved a remarkable 43% representation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses, positioning the nation among the leaders globally in promoting gender diversity in these critical fields.
PM Awas Yojana Promoting Rural Women:
The allocation of 70% of houses under the PM Awas Yojana to rural women signifies a strategic approach to ensuring shelter and empowerment for women in rural areas.
Apart from the budget, several other government initiatives have played a vital role in empowering women and fostering their confidence across diverse sectors:
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY):
As of November 2023, out of a total of 44.46 crore loans sanctioned under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), 30.64 crore (69%) have been sanctioned to women.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY):
Launched in 2014 to provide basic banking facilities, PMJDY has ensured financial inclusion for women, with 56% of the accounts held by them, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana:
Under DAY-NRLM, approximately 90 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) led by women are contributing significantly to the economic transformation of rural women.
Women’s Representation in Armed Forces:
Measures have been implemented to increase women’s representation in the Armed Forces, including granting permanent commission in combat roles, entry into the National Defence Academy, and other supportive policies.
Ujjwala Yojana:
Initiated in 2016, Ujjwala Yojana has provided clean cooking fuel to economically challenged families, significantly impacting the health and time management of adult women in these households.
Jal Jeevan Mission:
Launched in 2019, the mission has eased the burden on women fetching water from distant sources by ensuring a safe and adequate drinking water supply to all rural families.