Topic: Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues.
1) Closing the gender pay gap is key to achieving social justice, as well as economic growth for the nation. Discuss. (250 Words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why this question:
The question is in the context of rising trends of Gender wage disparity in India as pointed out by the recent report on pay disparity by Oxfam.
Demand of the question:
This question seeks to examine the current gender wage gap scenario prevalent in India. One has to address the question by listing out the various associated causes and suggest suitable measures to overcome them.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Keywords:
occupational segregation, racial bias, disability, access to education etc.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction
Start by highlighting the alarming issue of the Gender wage gap and how and why it disfavors women as well as LGBTQ+.
Body
Discuss the following aspects –
What do you understand about the gender pay gap?
Factors leading to gender gap viz. – The primary industries in the state and the opportunities they create; Demographics such as race/ethnicity, age, and education level; Regional differences in attitudes and beliefs about work and gender; and Differences in the scope and strength of state pay discrimination laws and policies.
Facts and reports suggesting the prevalence of it.
Suggest what needs to be done to overcome it. – policy actions, government efforts, awareness, education for women, state-led facilitation for equal pay etc.
Conclusion
Conclude with the importance of gender equity.
