Gender is a powerful concept, influencing peoples’ lives and molding their behaviors even before they know it. While the world today talks of sustainable development and equality, it is evident that the entire weight of societal expectations, compliance to traditional norms and compromises fall unequally on women. This study holds significance as it gives a peek into one of the dreaded facets of human existence, of poverty and its implications over women’s lives and choices. The objectives of this study are to assess the educational level of slum women and the reasons for dropping out of education; to determine how many women work and lead single woman- led households; and to understand the factors for interstate and inter-slum migration by slum dwellers. The study was conducted in September 2022, and the primary data was collected through a field survey covering a total of 186 females of a slum area situated near Sector-38 in U.T. Chandigarh. A well-structured interview schedule was used to assess women and know about their educational, economic, and social life. The study reveals a state of concern as around 37.1% of the women surveyed were illiterate. The ones who could read and write dropped out of school early due to varied reasons like marriage and lack of financial resources. It was also observed that only 39.3% of women in the age group of 18 to 59 years perform some economic activity. The study unveils deeper societal stigma and ignorance, creating hurdles towards sustainable development and inclusivity.
Gender, Women, Poverty, Slum, Education
Unique Paper ID: 77
Publication Volume & Issue: VOLUME 3 , ISSUE 2
Page(s): 23-30