India Ranks 129 on Global Gender Gap Index 2024: WEF

On June 12, 2024, the World Economic Forum (WEF) released the Global Gender Gap Report for 2024, revealing that India has been ranked 129th out of 146 countries. This marks a decline of two places from its rank in 2023, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving gender parity.

India’s ranking in the Global Gender Gap Index is a reflection of the persistent gender disparities across various sectors. The index measures gender-based gaps in four key areas: Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health and Survival, and Political Empowerment. India’s lower ranking indicates significant gaps that need urgent attention and robust policy interventions.

In the realm of Economic Participation and Opportunity, India shows low female labor force participation, wage inequality, and limited representation of women in leadership roles. Despite some progress in recent years, these issues remain deeply rooted, contributing to the overall gender gap in the country.

The transition to higher education and vocational training remains a challenge in India. Societal norms, economic barriers, and safety concerns hinder the educational advancement of girls, particularly in rural areas.

Health and Survival indicators also present a mixed picture. Issues such as malnutrition, limited access to healthcare, and gender-based violence continue to impact women’s health adversely in India.

The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024 highlights the ongoing challenges India faces in achieving gender equality.