Introduction
The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action remains one of the most comprehensive global frameworks for achieving gender equality. Over the past three decades, India’s progress in women’s empowerment has been driven by strong policies, grassroots activism, and the resilience of women and girls. However, challenges such as gender-based violence, economic disparity, and digital exclusion persist. This blog explores India's journey beyond Beijing, highlighting key achievements and the road ahead.
The Beijing Platform for Action: A Transformative Moment
In 1995, the Beijing conference brought together leaders from 189 countries to address 12 critical areas of concern, including poverty, education, health, violence against women, economic empowerment, and leadership representation. Over 200 Indian women participated alongside the Government of India, setting the foundation for gender reforms in the country.
Key Achievements in Women’s Empowerment
1. Advancements in Maternal and Reproductive Health
Initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana have increased institutional deliveries to 95%.
Maternal mortality rates dropped from 130 to 97 deaths per 100,000 births (2014-2020).
Over 56.5% of married women now use modern contraceptives, enhancing reproductive autonomy.
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the world’s largest government-funded health scheme, has provided millions of women with free access to critical healthcare.
2. Progress in Women’s Education and Skill Development
The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) initiative has improved the child sex ratio and boosted girls' school enrollments.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has increased STEM participation among girls and improved retention rates.
UNICEF-supported sanitation programs have reduced menstruation-related absences in schools, ensuring continuous education for adolescent girls.
3. Women’s Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion
Through the National Rural and Urban Livelihood Missions, nearly 100 million women have been connected to financial networks via Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has facilitated digital financial transactions, allowing women to participate in savings and investments.
The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission has empowered over 100 million rural women with access to credit, livelihood opportunities, and financial literacy programs.
The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan has trained over 35 million rural women in digital literacy, reducing the digital gender gap.
4. Gender-Responsive Budgeting
The Gender Budget allocation has increased from 6.8% (2024-25) to 8.8% (2025-26).
A total of $55.2 billion is now dedicated to women-specific programs, reflecting a national commitment to gender equality.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence
Despite progress, gender-based violence remains a significant challenge:
770 One-Stop Centres (OSCs) have been established to provide medical, legal, and psychological support to survivors.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, implemented in July 2024, has strengthened legal protections for women.
Odisha’s blockchain-based system ensures swift and confidential support for survivors of gender violence.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Rajasthan Police Academy have collaborated on gender-responsive policing, enhancing women’s safety and access to justice.
Women’s Leadership and Representation in Governance
The Women’s Reservation Bill guarantees 33% legislative representation for women.
India now has 1.5 million women leaders in local governance, the largest cohort of women political leaders in the world.
Initiatives like the Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) Project and the G20 TechEquity platform are driving women’s participation in STEM and emerging technologies.
The Road Ahead: Strengthening a Feminist Future
The 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration reminds us that gender equality is not just a women’s issue—it is a global imperative. India's progress has been supported by government initiatives, international collaborations, and grassroots movements, but more needs to be done:
Strengthening Young Women’s Leadership
Investing in education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship.
Encouraging young women to participate in policy-making and governance.
Closing the Digital Gender Divide
Expanding digital literacy programs to rural areas.
Encouraging women entrepreneurs to leverage e-commerce and fintech solutions.
Enhancing Economic and Financial Inclusion
Increasing women’s workforce participation in formal employment sectors.
Ensuring equal pay and workplace safety.
Strengthening Laws and Law Enforcement
Improving survivor-centric legal frameworks.
Expanding One-Stop Centres and gender-responsive policing initiatives.
Promoting Gender-Responsive Policies
Increasing budget allocations for women’s education, healthcare, and financial empowerment.
Ensuring corporate and institutional accountability for gender inclusion.
Conclusion
The Beijing Platform for Action continues to serve as a guiding framework for gender equality in India. With a firm commitment to women-led development, financial inclusion, and social transformation, India is setting a global benchmark for inclusive growth.
By investing in women's leadership, addressing systemic challenges, and fostering collaborations, India can unlock a truly feminist future—one that is essential for a more just and equitable world.
"India's progress in women's empowerment beyond the Beijing Declaration—advancements in health, education, economic inclusion, and governance. Read more about the feminist future of India."
Learn more from UN Women’s Gender Equality Reports: UN Women.
By Team Atharva Examwise #atharvaexamwise
