October Article

Social Security: A Pillar of Stability with a Focus on Women in Punjab

Social security serves as a vital framework in any society, aimed at protecting individuals from financial hardship and ensuring access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, and shelter. Originating from the principle of collective welfare, social security encompasses a range of programmes like pensions, unemployment benefits, healthcare, and social assistance. It is particularly significant in bridging inequalities, alleviating poverty, and empowering marginalised groups. While it benefits society at large, targeted measures are often necessary for vulnerable demographics, particularly women, who face unique challenges rooted in social, economic, and cultural structures.

In India, where socio-economic disparities are pronounced, social security for women has emerged as a crucial concern. Women frequently experience barriers to education, healthcare, and financial independence, making them more susceptible to poverty and exploitation. Punjab, a state with a rich cultural heritage and significant agricultural output, is no exception. Despite its relatively high Human Development Index (HDI), women in Punjab grapple with gender-specific challenges that underscore the necessity for robust social security measures.

Social Security for Women in Punjab: The Need and Reality

Punjab's socio-economic landscape presents a mix of progress and persistent issues concerning women's welfare. On the one hand, Punjab has made strides in literacy and women's participation in politics. On the other, deep-seated patriarchal norms and systemic gender inequality hinder women's advancement. Social security programmes tailored for women are pivotal in addressing these challenges and fostering a more equitable society.

1. Economic Empowerment Through Employment Schemes

Punjab has implemented several initiatives to enhance women's economic security, such as skill development programmes under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). These initiatives aim to provide women with vocational training, enabling them to become self-reliant. However, the success of such programmes is often limited by low female labour force participation, cultural stigmas, and inadequate childcare support. Ensuring access to affordable childcare facilities and flexible work arrangements can help overcome these barriers.

2. Healthcare Accessibility

Health security is a cornerstone of social security, especially for women, who require specialised healthcare services throughout their lives. Punjab's government has introduced schemes like the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) to ensure free maternity services, and the Ayushman Bharat Yojana provides healthcare coverage for low-income families. However, rural areas still face challenges such as understaffed healthcare centres and limited awareness about available benefits. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and conducting awareness drives in rural regions can make these services more effective.

3. Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Women in Punjab, as elsewhere, are vulnerable to gender-based violence, including domestic violence, harassment, and trafficking. Social security programmes addressing this issue include helplines like the 181 Women’s Helpline and shelter homes under the Swadhar Greh scheme. Yet, many cases remain underreported due to stigma and lack of faith in law enforcement. Efforts to bolster these programmes must include sensitising law enforcement agencies, ensuring quick legal redressal, and promoting community awareness to combat societal taboos.

4. Educational Empowerment

Education is a powerful tool for social security, enabling women to access better opportunities and participate actively in decision-making processes. Punjab has implemented programmes like the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign to improve girl-child education. While enrolment rates have increased, dropout rates among girls remain high, particularly in rural areas, due to poverty, child marriage, or family responsibilities. Targeted interventions like scholarships and mid-day meal schemes can address these challenges effectively.

5. Social Assistance for Widows and Single Women

Social security measures for widows, single women, and elderly women are critical in a patriarchal society where they often face social ostracism and financial dependency. Punjab provides pensions for widows and elderly women, but delays in disbursement and insufficient amounts limit their efficacy. Digitising pension schemes and increasing the financial assistance amount could alleviate these issues significantly.

The Path Ahead

While Punjab has taken commendable steps in providing social security to women, significant gaps remain. Addressing these requires a multifaceted approach, involving government action, community engagement, and private-sector collaboration.

1. Policy Reforms: Policies should be revisited to account for evolving societal needs. For example, providing tax incentives for businesses that hire women or mandating paid maternity leave in all sectors can drive change.

2. Community Engagement: Grassroots initiatives that involve community leaders and local organisations can help in changing societal attitudes towards women’s empowerment.

3. Digital Inclusion: Technology can be a game-changer in delivering social security efficiently. Mobile apps and digital platforms can improve awareness and accessibility to social security programmes, especially in rural areas.

Social security is not merely an economic safety net; it is a vehicle for social transformation. For Punjab, focusing on women’s social security is not just a moral imperative but a strategic necessity to foster inclusive development. By ensuring women have equal access to resources and opportunities, Punjab can unlock their potential, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous society.