Gender Policy for Open Schooling in India

Abstract

It has been found worldwide that the larger problem of gender discrimination is caused due to gender bias in the family and community specifically due to the patriarchal (or matriarchal) mindset of people accompanied by gender stereotyping in work and occupation particularly in unorganised sector, have been a cause of concern when we come to think of gender justice and women’s empowerment. It is now time to change and modernize the thinking in the globalised society to treat each human being equally and let each one have the option to live and let live. // Gender cuts across class, caste, colour, religion, race, ethnicity and other variables. It is not the issue of either women or men, but a collective issue. It is imperative that the crucial elements of Gender integration are kept in mind while planning and policy making, at the national level in all fields, not only in education. Some of these crucial elements to be kept in mind are: Commitment to gender equity, equality, empowerment and justice; Gender analysis to be the basis of all policy; Gender Indicators to be kept in mind; Planning from a ‘Gender’ perspective; Gender balanced teams and participation in all matters; and Gender inclusive evaluation of policies. // It is hoped that this Gender Policy will be a beginning in this direction and lead the country towards gender equity, equality, empowerment and justice. // Paper ID 493