An Examination of Multidimensional Gender-Based Educational Disparity at Various Levels in India Using the Gender Parity Index
Author(s): 1. Chandan Kumar Kushwaha, 2. Prof. Nigar Alam Siddique
Authors Affiliations:
1. Research Scholar: Department of Geography, Faculty of Science, Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh, India – 202002
2. Professor: Department of Geography, Faculty of Science, Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh, India – 202002
Abstract: Gender-based educational disparities in India remain a significant challenge, affecting enrollment, retention, literacy, and learning outcomes across different levels of education. Despite substantial progress in recent decades, deep-rooted socio-economic and cultural barriers continue to limit equal educational opportunities for females. This study investigates these disparities using the Gender Parity Index (GPI), a statistical measure comparing female-to-male access to education. Relying on secondary data from official sources such as the Ministry of Education, National Statistical Office (NSO), Census of India, National Achievement Survey (NAS), Annual Status of Education Report (ASER), and international data sources from organizations like UNESCO and UNICEF, the study provides a comprehensive assessment of gender disparities in education across India. Findings reveal that while near gender parity has been achieved at the primary level (GPI: 0.97), disparities increase at the secondary level (GPI: 0.84) and higher education levels (GPI: 0.93). Dropout rates further highlight gender-based challenges, with highly female dropout rates at secondary (GPI: 0.84) and higher education levels (GPI: 0.76), often driven by household responsibilities, early marriage, and inadequate school infrastructure. Literacy gaps remain regionally uneven, with Kerala (GPI: 0.98) and Mizoram (GPI: 0.95) achieving near parity, while Rajasthan (GPI: 0.71) and Bihar (GPI: 0.76) continue to lag. In learning outcomes, girls outperform boys in Language (GPI: 1.03) and General Knowledge (GPI: 1.02), while boys excel in Mathematics (GPI: 0.95) and Science (GPI: 0.93), underlining the need to foster female participation in STEM fields and improve literacy-focused interventions for boys. Addressing these disparities requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved educational infrastructure, financial incentives, and targeted policy interventions to challenge traditional gender norms. Ensuring equal access to education is not just a matter of social justice but a crucial step toward national progress, economic development, and the empowerment of future generations.
1. Chandan Kumar Kushwaha, 2. Prof. Nigar Alam Siddique(2025); An Examination of Multidimensional Gender-Based Educational Disparity at Various Levels in India Using the Gender Parity Index, International Journal for Innovative Research in Multidisciplinary Field, ISSN(O): 2455-0620, Vol-11, Issue-3, Pp.1-13. Available on – https://www.ijirmf.com/
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