The equal status that the women enjoyed in ancient times has been deteriorating since the medieval period. Though many celebrated women like Razia Sultana, Rani of Jhansi, Sarojini Naidu and Indira Gandhi demonstrated the women prowess in the modern era, women by and large remained subjugated by men. Concerted efforts by successive governments since Independence for empowering the women did not make much progress.

  This was mainly due to the failure by planners and policy makers to focus on the basic needs of women. Education and economic participation are the key constituents in ensuring the empowerment of women. Education is essential for empowering women in all spheres of society, because on being updated with existing knowledge and relevant to current needs, women will be able to have access to well-paid formal sector jobs and advance with men.

  The economic empowerment of women is a vital element of strong economic growth in any....