The empowerment of India’s women with bold policies Premium

India is making notable strides in empowering women, with government policies playing a crucial role in transforming women’s access to sanitation financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship

In the context of International Women’s Day on March 8, it is pertinent to note that India is making notable strides in empowering women, with government policies playing a crucial role in transforming women’s access to sanitation, clean water, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives, paired with broader social and economic changes, are reshaping women’s roles in governance, in the workforce, and community leadership across the country.

The journey towards women’s empowerment in India took a significant step forward with the launch of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), an initiative that was aimed not just at building toilets but also at improving the dignity, the safety and the well-being of women across the country. The mission focused on ending open defecation, especially in rural areas, where women faced heightened risks and challenges. According to government data, over 116 million households have benefited from the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), leading to safer, healthier environments and giving women greater freedom and security in their daily lives.

In Rourkela, the Maa Tarini Self-Help Group (SHG) took the initiative to address the sanitation needs of leprosy patients, a marginalised group often excluded from such efforts. By constructing community toilets with enhanced water supply, they provided a safer space for women, improved menstrual hygiene, and promoted dignity. The initiative also incorporated composting activities, generating income for the community while supporting sustainable waste management practices.

Building on the SBM’s success, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was introduced to ensure that every household had access to safe and reliable drinking water. Prior to the mission, only 17% of India’s rural households had tap water connections, leading to long hours spent by women fetching water — time that could have been used for education, work, or other pursuits. With the JJM, over 150 million households now have tap water, helping to lighten the daily burdens that women face.

The benefits extend far beyond convenience. Studies show that access to water has led to a 7.4% increase in women’s participation in agriculture and allied work, particularly in States such as Bihar and Jharkhand, where female labour force participation was historically low. Between 2017 and 2023, rural female participation in the workforce jumped from 24.6% to 41.5%, with the JJM cited as a key driver of this positive change. By freeing women from the daily chore of water collection, this initiative is unlocking new opportunities for economic independence and helping local economies thrive.

India’s efforts in empowering women through targeted policies and initiatives are not just improving daily life. They are also creating a foundation for future progress. With continued focus on accessible resources, financial inclusion, and breaking down social barriers, India is paving the way for a generation of women to lead and succeed in every area of life.

India’s economic transformation is increasingly being shaped by women entrepreneurs and financial inclusion initiatives, reflecting broader shifts in digital access, policy support, and economic empowerment.