Gender Religion and Caste | 10 Minutes Rapid Revision | Class 10 SST

Recent questions

• What is gender bias in the workplace?

  Gender bias in the workplace refers to the unequal treatment of individuals based on their gender, often resulting in women facing discrimination in hiring, promotions, and pay. Despite legal frameworks like the Equal Remuneration Act, which mandates equal pay for equal work, women frequently earn less than their male counterparts. This disparity is rooted in deep-seated societal norms and stereotypes that undervalue women's contributions and capabilities. Gender bias can manifest in various forms, including assumptions about women's roles, capabilities, and commitment to their careers, which can hinder their professional advancement and perpetuate inequality in the workforce.

• How does caste affect politics in India?

  Caste significantly influences politics in India, shaping electoral strategies and voter behavior. The caste system, which is historically linked to hereditary occupations, continues to play a crucial role in determining political affiliations and alliances. Political parties often cater to specific caste groups to secure votes, which can lead to both positive outcomes, such as increased representation for marginalized communities, and negative consequences, such as the overshadowing of critical social issues. While social reformers and constitutional changes have aimed to reduce caste-based discrimination, the caste system still impacts marriage, social interactions, and political dynamics, making it a complex factor in the Indian political landscape.

• What is communalism in society?

  Communalism in society refers to a situation where one religious community dominates others, leading to discrimination, conflict, and violence. This phenomenon can create divisions among different religious groups, fostering an environment of mistrust and hostility. In contrast, secularism promotes the equal treatment of all religions, as enshrined in the Indian Constitution, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of communalism. By advocating for a society where all religious beliefs are respected and treated equally, secularism seeks to prevent the marginalization of minority communities and promote social harmony, thereby countering the divisive nature of communalism.

• Why is women's political representation low?

  Women's political representation is critically low due to a combination of societal norms, historical barriers, and systemic discrimination. In India, women hold less than 5% of seats in state assemblies, reflecting the challenges they face in entering and succeeding in politics. Factors contributing to this underrepresentation include cultural attitudes that discourage women's participation in public life, low literacy rates, and high dropout rates for girls, despite their academic performance. Recent legislative efforts, such as a bill proposing to reserve one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha, aim to address this imbalance and enhance women's political participation, but significant obstacles remain.

• What are the effects of sex-selective abortions?

  Sex-selective abortions have led to a declining sex ratio in India, with some regions reporting alarming ratios below 800 females for every 1,000 males. This practice stems from a societal preference for male children, driven by cultural, economic, and social factors. The consequences of sex-selective abortions are profound, contributing to gender imbalances that can result in increased violence against women, trafficking, and social instability. The declining female population not only affects family structures but also has broader implications for society, as it perpetuates gender discrimination and undermines efforts toward achieving gender equality. Addressing this issue requires comprehensive strategies that challenge societal norms and promote the value of girls.