Women and Education in Odisha

Abstract

Education is the most important driving force for the progress and development of a nation. Both men and women have to play an equal role in contributing to the nation’s development. Therefore, equal opportunities of education should be provided to all. A study by World Bank in 2003 says that educating women is not a charity, it is good economics and if developing nations are to abolish poverty, they should educate their women. As per Niti Aayog’s national Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index (MPI) 2021 report 29.35 percentage of the State’s population is multidimensionally poor. The MPI index in almost half of the Districts of the State is alarming and in tribal districts it is more than 40%. As per Niti Aayog data (2011-12) 32.59% of Odisha’s population is below the poverty line, 2nd in the country while Bihar ranks first. It is also an admitted fact that the society can progress only when it’s women are educated. India ranks 140 out of 156 countries in the Gender Inequality Index(GII)2021. Moreover, India has the potential to become one of the greatest economies in the world but lack of opportunities of education for women will act as a strong barrier in realizing the goal. We are living through a global crisis and the road ahead is uncertain. This will have long standing effects on the adolescents and youth.