Comprehension

Promoting Gender Sensitivity through ‘Beti Bachao–Beti Padhao’ Social Campaign
The division of the society into male, female and transgender is believed to be natural and biological. But, in reality, there are social constructs and roles assigned to individuals which are reinforced by social institutions. Consequently, these biological differences become the basis of social differentiations, discriminations and exclusions. The exclusion of over half of the population becomes a serious handicap to any developing and civilised society. It is a global challenge, which has been acknowledged by the UNDP when it mentioned that, “If development is not engendered it is endangered” (HDR UNDP 1995). Discrimination, in general, and gender discrimination, in particular, is a crime against humanity.
All efforts need to be made to address the denial of opportunities of education, employment, political representation, low wages for similar types of work, disregard to their entitlement to live a dignified life, etc. A society, which fails to acknowledge and take effective measures to remove such discriminations, cannot be treated as a civilised one. The Government of India has duly acknowledged the adverse impacts of these discriminations and launched a nationwide campaign called ‘Beti Bachao – Beti Padhao’. 

Question: 1

Describe any one ill-effect of gender discrimination on a society.

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Eliminating gender discrimination is essential for inclusive growth, equality, and sustainable development.
Updated On: Jul 2, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

Gender discrimination leads to the exclusion and marginalization of women and girls in various spheres such as education, employment, and political participation. This results in several negative consequences for society:

  • Underutilization of Talent: When half of the population is denied equal opportunities, society loses out on the talents, skills, and perspectives of women, reducing overall productivity and innovation.
  • Slower Economic Growth: Gender discrimination limits women’s participation in the workforce, which affects economic growth and development negatively.
  • Social Imbalance: Discrimination perpetuates inequalities and social tensions, leading to imbalances in power and opportunities.
  • Hindrance to Human Development: Denying girls education and healthcare affects the well-being of future generations and limits human development.

Thus, gender discrimination poses a serious handicap to the progress and civilized development of any society.

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Question: 2

“If development is not engendered it is endangered.” Explain the statement.

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Sustainable development requires equal opportunities and empowerment for all genders to truly succeed.
Updated On: Jul 2, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The statement means that development that does not include gender equality and the empowerment of all genders is incomplete and unsustainable. When women and marginalized genders are excluded from the benefits of development, the progress made is fragile and at risk of failing because:

  • Unequal Participation: Excluding half the population limits the human resources and talents needed for holistic growth.
  • Social Imbalance: Gender inequality leads to social tensions, discrimination, and marginalization, which undermine social cohesion.
  • Limited Impact: Development projects that ignore gender issues fail to address the real needs of society and thus cannot achieve lasting improvements.
  • Global Recognition: The UNDP (1995) acknowledged this risk, emphasizing that sustainable development must be gender-inclusive.

Therefore, to ensure that development is strong and enduring, it must be “engendered” — that is, it must promote gender equality and empower all individuals regardless of gender.

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Question: 3

Explain the main objective of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign.

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‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ focuses on saving girls and promoting their education and empowerment to build a more equal society.
Updated On: Jul 2, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The main objective of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign is to address the declining child sex ratio and promote the survival, protection, and education of the girl child. The campaign aims to:

  • Prevent gender-biased sex-selective elimination.
  • Promote awareness about the importance of girls’ education and empowerment.
  • Ensure equal opportunities for girls in health, education, and social welfare.
  • Change societal attitudes that discriminate against the girl child.

Through these efforts, the campaign seeks to improve the status of girls in society and foster gender equality.

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