Gender Inequality Index (GII)

The Gender Inequality Index is a composite metric published by the United Nations Development Programme that measures gender-based disadvantages across three dimensions: reproductive health, empowerment, and labor market participation.

Under Social Issues

• It serves as a critical benchmark for evaluating structural gender disparities and the efficacy of welfare interventions within Indian governance.
• The index highlights systemic policy bottlenecks in female labor force participation and political representation at national and state levels.
• It provides an objective basis for assessing India's progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality.

UPSC frequently frames questions on gender indices by linking social justice parameters with economic outcomes and constitutional rights. Mains questions often require candidates to evaluate why India's socio-economic schemes have not fully translated into improvements on global indicators like maternal health or economic participation. Candidates are expected to analyze the interplay between legislative measures, such as political reservations, and persistent socio-cultural barriers.

• Role of women and women’s organizations, population issues, poverty GS1
• Social Sector/Services: health, education, human resources GS2