Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action
The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action is a comprehensive blueprint to advance women's rights globally. It was established at a meeting in 1995 with leaders and delegates from 189 countries, including over 200 Indian women and the Government of India, focusing on 12 critical "areas of concern."
Key Areas of Progress and Initiatives in India
- Maternal Health Care
- Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana have increased institutional deliveries to 95%.
- Maternal mortality reduced from 130 to 97 deaths per 1,00,000 births between 2014 and 2020.
- Reproductive Health
- 56.5% of married women use modern contraceptives.
- Healthcare Access
- Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana provides free medical treatment to millions of women.
- Education
- 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' initiative improved child sex ratio and school enrolments for girls.
- National Education Policy 2020 increased retention rates, especially in STEM fields.
- Economic Empowerment
- 100 million women connected to financial networks via self-help groups.
- 35 million rural women trained in digital literacy through the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan.
Gender-Responsive Budgeting
- The share of the Gender Budget has increased from 6.8% in 2024-25 to 8.8% in 2025-26, with $55.2 billion allocated for gender-specific programs.
Challenges and Innovations
- Gender-Based Violence
- 770 One Stop Centres provide support to survivors.
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 strengthens legal protections.
- Innovations in Support Systems
- A blockchain-based system in Odisha provides swift and confidential support to survivors.
- Partnerships like that between United Nations Population Fund and Rajasthan Police Academy enhance gender-responsive policing.
Leadership and Political Representation
- Women’s Reservation Bill guarantees 33% legislative representation.
- India has the largest cohort of women political leaders, around 1.5 million.
Conclusion
India's progress in gender equality is driven by strong governmental and global partnerships. Continuing to invest in young women's leadership and addressing systemic barriers are crucial to sustaining this journey.