A CO-RELATIVE APPROACH BETWEEN FAMILY ISSUES AND GENDER EQUALITY IN CONTEMPORARY INDIAN SOCIETY

Abstract

The paper examines how family matters and gender equality intersect in the modern Indian society. It looks at the effects of institutionalized patriarchal rules and conventional family systems, e.g. domestic violence, dowry system and unequal distribution of household labour on gender equality. The study is a multi-methods study which has incorporated both quantitative data based on secondary sources, such as the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) and the India Human Development Survey (IHDS), and qualitative data based on focus groups and interviews. Among the major findings, it was established that domestic violence impacts the independence of women and access to resources, Dowry practice strengthens gender commodification and inequalities, and women are restricted to unpaid domestic work, which constrains their economic opportunities and careers. The existence of gender disparities is still rife with deep-seated cultural practices and social norms, even though there have been improvements in legislation. This research shows why there is a strong necessity for policy interventions and reforms in society to help in solving these problems and encourage real gender equality in India. The lessons learned might guide policymakers, activists, and teachers in order to promote gender equality and advancing social justice within Indian families.