Syllabus: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes
Context
- UPSC data (2010–2021) show women form under 40% of civil services aspirants.
- Transgender participation remains negligible, exposing persistent gender disparities in recruitment.
Trends and Data (2010–2021)
- Female participation increased from 23.4% (2010) to 32.98% (2021).
- In 2021, 14.75% of women cleared prelims; 15.66% (201 women) reached final merit.
- Only 4 transgender candidates appeared in 2021; none qualified.
- Despite inclusion since 2016, third-gender representation remains symbolic.
Reasons for Gender Gap
- Social constraints: Patriarchy, early marriage, and family pressure limit women’s preparation time.
- Financial barriers: Coaching costs ₹2–3 lakh yearly; rural women’s education spending 30% lower than men.
- Mobility and safety issues: Fear of relocating to metros; India ranks 127/146 in WEF 2024 mobility freedom index.
- Social burden: 40% of women quit preparation by age 27 due to marriage pressure.
- Institutional gaps: Lack of gender hostels, counselling, and mentorship; only 15% institutes offer women’s facilities.
Emerging Positive Trends
- Gradual rise in women’s participation reflects educational empowerment and role-model inspiration.
- Icons like Ira Singhal and Rema Rajeshwari inspire Tier-II and III aspirants.
- Schemes like PM-DAKSH and Mission Karmayogi enhance women’s administrative capacity.
- Transgender inclusion under Transgender Persons Act, 2019 shows legal recognition.
- NEP 2020 promotes gender sensitivity and professional awareness.
Significance of Gender Balance
- Enhances policy inclusivity, integrity, and public welfare outcomes.
- Women officers improve social policy delivery and reduce corruption (NCAER 2022, UNDP 2023).
- Balanced bureaucracy ensures representative decision-making and equity in governance.
Way Forward
- Launch Women-in-Administration Fellowships for coaching and mentorship.
- Publish UPSC Gender Diversity Reports annually.
- Introduce flexible postings, crèche facilities, and sabbaticals for women officers.
- Expand state-run coaching centres and hostels for inclusivity.
- Conduct gender-sensitivity campaigns in schools and media.
Conclusion
- Gender-balanced civil services are vital for a democratic and inclusive India.
- Equal opportunity in entry ensures representation, empathy, and integrity in governance.