Corporate-Led
Development vs. Women-Led Development:
Historically, the development models embraced by self-proclaimed democracies, particularly in the West, have resulted in egregious inequalities between nations, within countries, and between genders. The conventional "trickle-down theory" has perpetuated disparities, allowing big businesses to thrive on state subsidies, tax concessions, and other perks, purportedly for the greater good of economic growth. The G20 Declaration's endorsement of the critical role of private enterprise raises concerns about the compatibility of such models with the concept of women-led development.
The
Deceptive Facade of Women-Led Development Schemes:
Examining India's shift from "Women Development" to "Women-led Development," the government's rhetoric does not align with reality. The Gender Budget, initially conceived as a tool for prioritized investment in women's development, has dwindled into a mere accounting exercise. Despite the emphasis on "women-led development," the total Gender Budget has seen minimal growth, hovering between 4% and 6%. The disturbing trend reveals a reduction in the share of wholly women-specific schemes within an already inadequate budget.
Economic
Independence and the Plight of Women:
True women-led development should foster economic independence. However, an analysis of the Periodic Labour Force Survey indicates a decline in the share of women in regular waged work in India. Over 95% of women find themselves in the unorganized sector with no job or income security. Flagship schemes employ a significant number of women, but they remain exploited, receiving allowances below minimum wages and lacking recognition as government employees. The surge in women engaged in unpaid agricultural work underscores the grim reality of women, especially Dalits and Adivasis, bearing the brunt of corporate-led economic policies.
Conclusion:
As we
scrutinize the rhetoric surrounding women-led development, it becomes evident
that the prevailing economic models, endorsed by global summits and
governments, do not align with the genuine empowerment of women. The
discrepancy between words and actions, as seen in the ambiguous G20 Declaration
and India's budgetary allocations, underscores the urgent need for a paradigm
shift. If we are to truly empower women, it is imperative to challenge and
reform the existing corporate-led development narrative and advocate for
inclusive, equitable, and sustainable policies that uplift women across all
sectors of society.
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