Recent data shows India ranking 129th out of 146 countries in the Global Gender Gap Index 2024, highlighting the complex impact of globalization on women's progress.

Positive Effects of Globalisation on Women

Economic Empowerment

• Enhanced employment in IT, BPO, and manufacturing sectors with women comprising 36% of IT workforce
• Rise of women entrepreneurs owning 20.37% of MSMEs as per 2024 data
• Financial inclusion through digital platforms enabling 80% women to access banking services
• Export-oriented industries providing formal employment with better wage structures
• Growth in women-led startups with 17% annual increase in women-founded companies

Educational and Skill Development

• Access to international education and online learning platforms
• Professional skill enhancement through multinational corporate training programs
• Digital literacy initiatives reaching rural women through Jan Aushadhi and similar programs
• Language skills development for global market participation
• Technical education opportunities in emerging sectors like renewable energy and biotechnology

Negative Effects of Globalisation on Women

Economic Vulnerabilities

• Gender pay gap of 19% persisting across sectors despite globalization
• Job displacement in traditional sectors like handloom and agriculture affecting women disproportionately
• Increased informal sector employment without social security benefits
• Export industry exploitation with long working hours and poor working conditions
• Economic dependency on volatile global markets affecting job security

Social and Cultural Challenges

• Work-life balance issues with dual burden of professional and domestic responsibilities
• Cultural conflicts between traditional values and modern work requirements
• Increased domestic violence cases by 2.1% in urban areas due to economic stress
• Limited access to childcare facilities affecting women's career progression
• Social pressure and stigma for working women in conservative communities

Globalization presents a double-edged scenario for Indian women. While initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and constitutional provisions under Article 15(3) support women's advancement, addressing structural inequalities remains essential for inclusive growth.