Learning Path

Adaptive:Personalised Learning

About the Course

Gender Issues and Development

Course Description:

This course explores gender as a social construct and examines the various issues and discriminations faced by individuals across gender identities. It provides a critical understanding of gender in the context of development, empowerment, legal frameworks, and constitutional provisions. The course aims to sensitize students toward gender equity and encourages an inclusive approach to societal progress.

Course Objectives:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand the concept of gender and its role in societal development.

• Identify various forms of gender-based discrimination and analyze their root causes.

• Evaluate the importance of empowerment in achieving gender equity.

• Interpret constitutional provisions and policies related to gender justice.

• Gain awareness of legal protections and recent acts supporting gender equality.

Module I: Introduction to Gender Issues and Development

• Understanding gender: concept and distinctions between sex and gender

• Historical perspective on gender roles and stereotypes

• Gender and socialization

• Role of gender in development discourse

• Gender equality as a component of inclusive growth

Module II: Discrimination and Gender Issues

• Forms of gender-based discrimination: domestic, workplace, education, health

• Violence against women and marginalized genders

• Intersectionality: gender, caste, class, religion, and ethnicity

• Gender inequality index and global perspectives

• Media and gender representation

Module III: Development and Empowerment

• Concept of women empowerment

• Strategies for gender-inclusive development

• Role of education, employment, and political participation

• Community-based programs and self-help groups (SHGs)

• Role of NGOs and international organizations (UN Women, UNICEF, etc.)

Module IV: Constitutional Provisions for Gender Justice

• Fundamental rights and directive principles related to gender

• Role of the Constitution in promoting equality

• Gender justice through judiciary and constitutional interpretation

• Role of commissions: NCW, NCPCR, etc.

• Case studies of constitutional remedies in gender issues

Module V: Acts and Enactments Supporting Gender Equality

• Domestic Violence Act (2005)

• Dowry Prohibition Act (1961)

• Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013)

• Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act (2012)

• The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act (2019)

• Recent amendments and developments