Gendered Experiences of COVID-19 in India

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on women in India, affecting their informal sector, health care, economic engagement, and mental health. Gender-responsive policies are needed to ensure their equal rights, representation, and participation in society.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 370 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on women in India, affecting various aspects of their lives. In this edited volume, contributors from diverse fields critically examine the multifaceted effects of the pandemic on women in the country. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research, they explore the consequences of the pandemic on the informal sector, migrant women workers, women in the health care sector, women's economic engagement, the experiences of elderly women, mental health care, higher education, and more. The chapters also delve into the gender-responsive policies that are necessary to ensure women's equal rights, representation, and participation in society during and after the pandemic.

The book situates India within the broader global context of discussions surrounding the economic, social, and political consequences of the pandemic on gender inequalities. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and policy makers interested in understanding the challenges faced by women in India and exploring potential solutions to address these issues.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women in India has been far-reaching and multifaceted. In the informal sector, women have been particularly vulnerable, as many have lost their jobs and sources of income due to the shutdown of businesses and the decline in demand. Migrant women workers, who often work in low-paying and informal jobs, have faced additional challenges, including limited access to healthcare, social protection, and legal support. Women in the health care sector have also been frontline workers, putting themselves at risk of infection and exposure to the virus. They have faced significant workload pressures, inadequate protective equipment, and limited access to mental health care.

Women's economic engagement has also been affected by the pandemic. Many women have lost their jobs or experienced reduced working hours, leading to increased poverty and food insecurity. Women-owned businesses have also faced significant challenges, with limited access to capital, resources, and support. Moreover, the pandemic has exacerbated gender-based violence and harassment, with reports of increased domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Elderly women have been particularly vulnerable during the pandemic, as they are at higher risk of severe illness and mortality. They have faced challenges in accessing healthcare services, as well as social isolation and loneliness. Mental health care has also been a critical concern, with reports of increased stress, anxiety, and depression among women.

Higher education has also been impacted by the pandemic, with many institutions closing down or shifting to online learning. Women students have faced additional barriers, including limited access to technology, unreliable internet connections, and increased workload. Moreover, the pandemic has exacerbated gender-based discrimination and harassment in higher education, with reports of sexual assault and harassment among students.

To address these challenges, gender-responsive policies are urgently needed in India. These policies should prioritize the protection and empowerment of women, including measures to support women's economic engagement, promote gender equality in education, and address gender-based violence and harassment. Additionally, policies should focus on providing healthcare services, including mental health care, to women in need.

Furthermore, it is essential to address the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to gender inequality in India. This includes promoting gender-responsive social protection programs, addressing gender-based discrimination in the workplace, and promoting equal access to education and employment opportunities.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on women in India, affecting various aspects of their lives. This edited volume provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges faced by women and highlights the need for gender-responsive policies to ensure their equal rights, representation, and participation in society. By addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to gender inequality, India can move towards a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

Weight: 511g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030853372
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021