A Comparative Study of Gender Inequality in Higher Education in India Since Independence

Author : Sugeeta Upadhyay

Abstract :This study explores the evolution of higher education in India post-Independence, with a particular focus on gender disparities and access issues. Despite India's progress in literacy rates and the expansion of the education sector, challenges such as high dropout rates, stagnant, education quality, and educated unemployment persist. The study identifies the uneven participation of female students, especially from marginalized communities, as a critical issue. The research evaluates the impact of education policies on increasing female enrolment and access to higher education, examining data from states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and Punjab. Using sources such as the Government of India's budgeted education expenditures and RBI statistics, it assesses educational service utilization across social strata, focusing on the period between 2014 and 2022. Key findings include a decline in primary education enrolment, particularly in rural areas, and persistent disparities in education despite an increase in education expenditure from 3.84% to 4.64% of GDP between 2013-14 and 2020-21. The study highlights the need for targeted policies to address gender inequality and ensure equitable access to education for disadvantaged populations.

Keywords :Higher Education, India, Gender Disparities, Access to Education, Education Policies, Female Enrollment, Marginalized Communities, Literacy Rates, Education Quality, Dropout Rates, Educational Expenditure, Social Stratification, Rural Education, Equity in Education.

Conference Name :International Conference on Development Economics and Public Policy (ICDEPP -25)

Conference Place Hamburg, Germany

Conference Date 15th Jan 2025