Empowering Women: Cornerstone Of Family Empowerment

When talking about women's empowerment, it is important to see how society has dealt with this issue - women are the central pillars of the family but this message is soon lost as the idea of gender construction starts to form, said Dr Ranjana Kumari, Director, Centre for Social Research, New Delhi at the second edition of BW Social Impact Summit and Awards.

With poignant anecdotes and compelling insights, Dr Kumari emphasised the pivotal role women play, not just as mothers or caretakers, but as the binding force that sustains the very fabric of a family. Yet, the significance of women often wanes when gender stereotypes and constructs infiltrate homes, it's at this point, she noted, that the message of women as "integral to the family" gets lost.

"With gender construction distribution of power, respect and opportunity start and that is when the whole idea of entitlement begins and the balance starts tilting," Dr Ranjana Kumari said. She further said that despite significant societal progress, these disparities persist. "Women do not have the agency and are still dependent on others to feel safety and security," Dr Kumari added.

Dr Kumari further conveyed that women's representation remains remarkably low particularly in political spheres, with only 14 per cent representation in the parliament. To drive home the importance of women's empowerment, Dr Kumari shared the inspirational story of Rekha Devi.

Married at the tender age of 12 and subsequently cast out of her home, Rekha Devi's journey exemplifies the transformative power of women's empowerment. Dr Kumari stated that Rekha Devi defied all odds, pursued her education, fought for her rights, and eventually gained custody of her two children adding that today, all three of them lead dignified lives, a testament to her determination and resilience.

As Dr Kumari quoted Gandhiji, "If you educate a man, you educate a person; if you educate a woman, you educate an entire family." The key takeaway from Rekha Devi's story is that empowered women can bring about substantial change, not only in their lives but also in their families and communities. She stressed that it is high time for society to acknowledge its collective responsibility and stand up for women's rights. When families and communities unite to support and empower women, profound societal transformations will inevitably follow, she added.

Concluding her talk, Dr Ranjana Kumari's keynote session underscored the inseparable connection between women's empowerment and family empowerment. The strength of a society, she reiterated, hinges on recognising the pivotal role women play in our lives. As Rekha Devi's story exemplifies, when women are empowered, families are empowered, and ultimately, society as a whole undergoes a transformative shift. She concluded that it is a clarion call for all of us to unite, acknowledge our responsibilities, and work together to create a society where women are not just empowered but celebrated for the indispensable roles they play in our lives.