Planning from a gender perspective is known as gender budgeting. It explicitly set aside funds for the progress of women. In 2005, it started in India.
A list of programs that emphasized the welfare of women was included in the budget statement. They were divided into two categories:
1) women-specific schemes (those having a 100% allocation for women) and
2) pro-women schemes (with at least a 30% allocation for women).
STATUS:
1) According to an IMF report, these programs have improved the enrollment of girls, particularly in primary school.
Initiatives like distributing bicycles for free to women had a great effect on schooling.
2) Gender budgeting has only been implemented in 16 states.
States are also taking action to promote gender budgeting. Programs like Beti Padhao and Beti Bachao have been successful.
3) The funds allocated have not been used to their full potential, and allocations have decreased.
4) Domestic work and caregiving are not considered to be productive labor and negatively affect women.
Way forward
1) The overall budgetary allotment for women has fluctuated about 5.5 percent. The net allocation for women needs to be increased immediately.
2) The empowerment of politics has significantly impacted women as well.
3) It is important to collect and analyze data regarding current programs. The existing plans should be expanded upon and improved. It must be ensured that no one is denied the benefits because of trivial technicalities.
It is important to prioritize and move quickly on public goods that benefit women.