Gender Bias Issues of Women of Uttarakhand and Media Efforts

Abstract

This paper examines the pervasive gender bias faced by women in Uttarakhand, India, despite their substantial contributions to the region's economy and society. Uttarakhand's women are significantly involved in agriculture, forestry, and cattle care, yet remain marginalized in family decision-making due to the entrenched patriarchal structure of society. The paper highlights that even with increased educational opportunities, the socio-economic status of women has not improved proportionately. The study reveals that women are overburdened with responsibilities, often working up to 16 hours a day while also facing health issues due to malnutrition and lack of adequate medical facilities. The patriarchal norms continue to restrict women's access to economic resources and decision-making power, perpetuating their dependency on men.

The paper also explores the role of media in addressing and highlighting women's issues in Uttarakhand. A comparative analysis of two prominent newspapers, Amar Ujala and Hindustan Times, demonstrates that despite the critical nature of women's issues, these are grossly underrepresented in media coverage. The findings show that only a small percentage of the print area is devoted to women's rights, with news stories dominating the coverage, followed by editorials, columns, and articles. The analysis underscores the need for more significant media engagement in advocating for women's rights and addressing gender bias in Uttarakhand.