Patriarchy and Anarchic Rules in India: The Negative Impact on Women, Society, and the Economy

Patriarchy continues to be a deeply embedded structure in Indian society, influencing not only the lives of women but also having far-reaching implications on the social, economic, and political frameworks of the country. Anarchic societal rules, combined with the rigid hierarchies of patriarchy, lead to the systemic exclusion of women from decision-making processes, public life, and economic empowerment. This analysis explores how patriarchy impacts Indian society and economy, and proposes remedial measures that can pave the way for a more equitable future.

The Pervasive Nature of Patriarchy in India

India’s societal norms and family structures are often grounded in patriarchal traditions, where men are seen as the heads of households, decision-makers, and breadwinners, while women are relegated to subservient roles. This dynamic is prevalent across urban and rural landscapes, although the intensity of these norms can vary based on region, religion, and class. Patriarchy manifests itself in various forms, including the preference for male children, restrictions on women’s mobility, and the disproportionate burden of domestic labor placed on women.

According to a 2022 report by the World Economic Forum, India ranks 127th out of 146 countries in terms of gender equality, highlighting the widespread gender disparity, particularly in terms of economic participation and political empowerment.

Negative Impacts of Patriarchy on Women

1. Workforce Participation: Despite the fact that women make up nearly 48% of India’s population, their participation in the workforce remains abysmally low. In 2023, the female labor force participation rate was recorded at around 20%, one of the lowest globally. Patriarchal norms often confine women to the private sphere, discouraging them from pursuing careers or professional ambitions. Women who do enter the workforce frequently face wage gaps, occupational segregation, and limited access to leadership roles.
2. Education Disparities: Patriarchy significantly affects girls’ access to education. Data from UNICEF shows that while India’s overall literacy rate has improved, the female literacy rate lags behind at around 65%, compared to 82% for males. In rural areas, where patriarchal traditions are more deeply entrenched, girls are often pulled out of school at an early age to help with domestic chores, or are married off to “secure their future.” The lack of education for women further perpetuates the cycle of poverty and dependence.
3. Health and Safety Issues: Patriarchal mindsets are linked to the prevalent issue of gender-based violence in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there were over 428,278 reported cases of crimes against women in 2021, ranging from domestic violence to sexual assault. The culture of silence and victim-blaming is rooted in patriarchal beliefs that undermine women’s autonomy and rights, often making it difficult for victims to seek justice.

Economic Impact of Patriarchy

The economic cost of gender inequality driven by patriarchal structures is immense. The McKinsey Global Institute estimates that by 2025, India could add an additional $770 billion to its GDP by advancing gender equality. The underutilization of nearly half of the country’s population in the workforce is a major missed opportunity for economic growth. Patriarchy also hampers productivity by undervaluing the unpaid domestic work done by women, which, if monetized, would contribute significantly to the GDP.

Further, patriarchal norms also limit women’s access to credit and entrepreneurial opportunities, preventing them from starting businesses and participating fully in the economy. The Global Gender Gap Report highlights that Indian women are often at a disadvantage when it comes to owning land or property, which are critical assets for securing loans or starting ventures.

Patriarchy’s Impact on Society

1. Social Inequality: Patriarchy deepens social inequality by entrenching male dominance in all aspects of life. Women are often excluded from decision-making in households, communities, and political arenas. This exclusion not only suppresses women’s voices but also results in policies and social norms that perpetuate male privilege. In politics, women hold only around 14% of parliamentary seats despite accounting for nearly half the population.
2. Marriage and Family Structures: Patriarchal family structures often reduce women’s status to that of caregivers and homemakers, eroding their independence and limiting their opportunities for self-empowerment. This dynamic is reinforced by practices like dowry and child marriage. India has one of the highest rates of child marriages in the world, with an estimated 1.5 million girls married before the age of 18 each year.

Remedial Measures

1. Education and Awareness Campaigns: One of the primary ways to dismantle patriarchy is through education. Increasing the enrollment and retention of girls in schools, especially in rural areas, is essential. Government initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao have had some success, but more needs to be done to address the cultural barriers that prevent girls from accessing education.
2. Legal Reforms: Stricter enforcement of laws that protect women’s rights, such as the Domestic Violence Act and the Dowry Prohibition Act, is critical. Legal reforms should also focus on increasing women’s access to property rights and financial resources, ensuring that they can participate in economic activities on equal footing with men.
3. Encouraging Women in Leadership: Increasing women’s representation in political and corporate leadership positions is crucial for challenging patriarchal norms. The Women’s Reservation Bill, which seeks to reserve 33% of seats for women in the Indian Parliament and state legislative assemblies, could be a transformative step if passed.
4. Economic Empowerment: Expanding job opportunities for women and encouraging entrepreneurship is critical. Programs that provide microfinance and skill development to women can help them overcome the barriers posed by patriarchy. Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) have proven effective in empowering women, especially in rural areas, by giving them financial independence and a collective voice.
5. Changing Social Norms: Tackling patriarchy requires a fundamental shift in societal attitudes. Public awareness campaigns, led by both the government and civil society, should focus on breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting the value of gender equality. Programs that engage men and boys, such as HeForShe, are critical in changing mindsets and challenging toxic masculinity.

Conclusion

Patriarchy in India not only limits women’s potential but also hinders the country’s overall progress, both socially and economically. While India has made strides in certain areas, much work remains to be done to dismantle the deeply entrenched patriarchal structures that continue to affect every aspect of life. Through education, legal reforms, economic empowerment, and a collective societal effort to change norms, India can create a more equitable society where women contribute fully to the nation’s development. In doing so, the country can unlock immense economic growth and social progress, benefiting not only women but all of Indian society.