Comprehension

Promoting Gender Sensitivity through ‘Beti Bachao–Beti Padhao’ Social Campaign
The division of the society into male, female and transgender is believed to be natural and biological. But, in reality, there are social constructs and roles assigned to individuals which are reinforced by social institutions. Consequently, these biological differences become the basis of social differentiations, discriminations and exclusions. The exclusion of over half of the population becomes a serious handicap to any developing and civilised society. It is a global challenge, which has been acknowledged by the UNDP when it mentioned that, “If development is not engendered it is endangered” (HDR UNDP 1995). Discrimination, in general, and gender discrimination, in particular, is a crime against humanity.
All efforts need to be made to address the denial of opportunities of education, employment, political representation, low wages for similar types of work, disregard to their entitlement to live a dignified life, etc. A society, which fails to acknowledge and take effective measures to remove such discriminations, cannot be treated as a civilised one. The Government of India has duly acknowledged the adverse impacts of these discriminations and launched a nationwide campaign called ‘Beti Bachao – Beti Padhao’. 

Question: 1

Describe any one ill-effect of gender discrimination on a society.

Show Hint

Eliminating gender discrimination is essential for inclusive growth, equality, and sustainable development.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

\r

Gender discrimination results in the exclusion and marginalization of women and girls across education, employment, and political involvement. This has detrimental societal consequences:

\r\r
    \r
  • Wasted Potential: When half the population lacks equal opportunities, society misses out on women's talents and skills, hindering productivity and innovation.
    • \r
  • Stunted Economic Progress: Gender bias restricts women's workforce participation, negatively impacting economic growth.
    • \r
  • Societal Inequality: Discrimination fuels disparities and conflict, creating imbalances in power and access.
    • \r
  • Impeded Human Advancement: Denying girls education and healthcare undermines future generations' well-being and overall human development.
    • \r
\r\r

Consequently, gender discrimination significantly obstructs a society's advancement and civilized evolution.

\r
Was this answer helpful?
0
Question: 2

“If development is not engendered it is endangered.” Explain the statement.

Show Hint

Sustainable development requires equal opportunities and empowerment for all genders to truly succeed.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

\r

The statement asserts that development is deficient and unsustainable if it fails to incorporate gender equality and the empowerment of all genders. When women and marginalized genders are excluded from development's advantages, the resulting progress is precarious and prone to failure due to:

\r\r
    \r
  • Unequal Participation: The exclusion of half the population curtails the human capital and expertise vital for comprehensive growth.
    • \r
  • Social Imbalance: Gender disparity fuels social discord, prejudice, and marginalization, thereby eroding societal unity.
    • \r
  • Limited Impact: Development initiatives that overlook gender concerns cannot address genuine societal needs, thus failing to achieve enduring improvements.
    • \r
  • Global Recognition: The UNDP (1995) recognized this peril, underscoring that sustainable development necessitates gender inclusivity.
    • \r
\r\r

Consequently, to guarantee robust and lasting development, it must be “engendered”—meaning it must foster gender equality and empower every individual irrespective of gender.

\r
Was this answer helpful?
0
Question: 3

Explain the main objective of ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign.

Show Hint

‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ focuses on saving girls and promoting their education and empowerment to build a more equal society.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
Show Solution

Solution and Explanation

The primary goal of the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ campaign is to combat the decreasing child sex ratio and advance the survival, protection, and schooling of female children. The campaign's objectives are:

  • To stop gender-based sex selection abortions.
  • To raise consciousness regarding the significance of girls' education and empowerment.
  • To guarantee equitable access for girls in healthcare, education, and social services.
  • To alter societal perspectives that devalue female children.

Through these initiatives, the campaign endeavors to elevate the status of girls within society and cultivate gender equality.

Was this answer helpful?
0

Top Questions on Gender and Society

Questions Asked in CBSE Class XII exam