Gender Development Index (GDI)
The Gender Development Index (GDI) is a gender-based measure of development introduced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It assesses disparities between men and women in the three core dimensions of human development: health, education, and income. The GDI highlights inequalities in human development achievements between genders, complementing the Human Development Index (HDI).
Key Features of GDI
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Definition:
- GDI is the ratio of the HDI values for females to males.
- It quantifies gender gaps in life expectancy, education, and income.
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Components:
- Life Expectancy at Birth: Measures gender disparities in health.
- Education: Assessed through mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling for both genders.
- Income: Compares Gross National Income (GNI) per capita for males and females.
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Classification:
- GDI is classified into five groups based on the extent of gender disparity, with Group 1 showing the least disparity and Group 5 showing the most.
Significance
- Highlights areas where gender inequalities persist, helping governments tailor policies to bridge gaps.
- Encourages a gender-sensitive approach to development planning.
- Serves as a tool for evaluating the impact of gender-focused interventions.
India's Performance
In the 2023 GDI Report, India was categorized under Group 4, reflecting a moderate level of gender disparity:
- Female HDI: 0.573.
- Male HDI: 0.663.
- Key challenges include lower female labor force participation (25.1%) and gender gaps in education.
Current Affairs
- Women-Led Development: India's G20 Presidency 2023 emphasized empowering women in STEM, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
- Government Schemes: Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Ujjwala Yojana, and Skill India Mission are bridging gender gaps.
- Global Initiatives: The UN’s Generation Equality Forum aligns with India's goals of reducing gender disparities.
GDI underscores the necessity of inclusive development that addresses gender inequalities for sustainable progress.