The Gender Dimension of Covid 19 Pandemic in India

Abstract

The present paper analyses the gender dimension of Covid 19 in India, focusing on three major areas, womens work, domestic violence and education. This paper concludes with certain policy suggestions arising out of this and recommends that civil society needs to join together and collectively look for solutions. The paper argues that finding a solution will take time; nevertheless, it may be able to develop alternative ideas and tactics that will not only help treat the problem but also help to prevent it. In any pandemic there is a strong correlation between factors such as income, race, and place of residence. Gender-based effects are also a part of this epidemic. Despite the fact that the crisis affects men and women differently and not always in the same direction, it has a greater impact on women. Our societys social constructs are to blame for this. Hence, it becomes necessary to examine the gender dimension of Covid 19. Some of the aspects that are discussed include, the impact in the job market, increase in care work, the rise of domestic work load, declining output of professional women, impact on elderly and mental health and domestic violence. It also examines how the scenario of education changed after Covid 19 and what are the challenges and opportunities in it. During the lockdowns, inequities overwhelmingly impact the wellbeing and economic resilience. Due to the current social structure, women bear the brunt of unpaid caregiving in today's stressed-out households. The rise in domestic violence is causing increasing concern. Older people with already other symptoms of disease and those with underlying health conditions are likely to experience serious illness. This coronavirus epidemic is not just a medical issue but a social and economic one and its impact is global and prolonged and has left a mark on our society.