The Gender Gap in Parliament: Role of Indian Women in Contributing to Public Policy
Dr Shaji Thomas
Assistant Professor, Pavanatma College Murickassery, Kerala
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http://doi.org/10.37648/ijps.v21i04.009
Abstract
Public policy is a powerful tool with which any democratic society that wants to combat social issues, foster development, and confer justice can go ahead. In India, where constitutional principles stand for equality and inclusive government, the contribution of women to public policy is curtailed by an underrepresentation in legislative institutions. Parliaments are the democratic governing establishment that has a remarkably gender-discriminated structure even when it has constitutional provisions for equality. The research explicitly concerns the contribution of Indian women to public policy in their capacity as Members of Parliament. An understanding of the ongoing gender disparities in political representation necessitates it. Based on extensive literature reviews, case studies, and empirical data, this paper discusses several central policy areas around health, education, and gender justice. It suggests avenues of strategic action as points of increased gender inclusion in Indian policymaking. Findings indicate the need for continuous policy efforts to ensure equal representation and recognise women's effective contribution in shaping India's democratic and developmental trajectory.
Keywords:
Constitutional; Democratic; Parliaments; Public Policy; Women.
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