Q. Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? (10 Marks)

Introduction

Gender justice requires not only formal equality but also fairness and empowerment to ensure women’s full participation in development.

Distinction between Gender Equality, Gender Equity, and

Women’s Empowerment

Aspect

Gender

Equality

Gender

Equity

Women’s

Empowerment

Meaning

Equal rights,

opportunities, and

treatment for men and

women.

Fairness in

treatment by recognizing

existing

disadvantages.

Process of

enhancing women’s ability to

make strategic life choices.

Focus

Outcome –

same access and status

for all genders.

Process –

measures to

create a level playing field.

Agency –

enabling women to control

resources and decisions.

Approach

Legal and

institutional

equality.

Corrective or

compensatory

mechanisms.

Transformational

and participatory

approach.

Example

Equal pay

for equal work.

Reservation

for women in local bodies.

Self-help groups

and women-led entrepreneurship.

Goal

Eliminate

gender-based

discrimination.

Address

historical and

social inequality.

Achieve

autonomy and

leadership for women.

Importance of Integrating Gender Concerns in Programme Design and Implementation

Inclusive Development: Ensures benefits reach all sections, reducing gender gaps in education, health, and employment.
Efficiency and Effectiveness: Women’s participation enhances resource utilization and decision-making outcomes.
Social Justice: Promotes equality of opportunity and rights as mandated by the Constitution (Articles 14–16).
Sustainability: Gender-sensitive policies lead to long-term, equitable growth.
Transforming Power Structures: Addresses patriarchal barriers and promotes social change.
Mainstreaming gender concerns ensures equitable and sustainable development. As Amartya Sen emphasized, empowerment expands women’s “capabilities” — the real freedom to live the lives they value.

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Q. Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empowerment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme design and implementation? (10 Marks)