Since gender is a cross – cutting issue, a number of Ministries have introduced several programmes and schemes which contribute to economic and social empowerment of women.

   The draft National Employment Policy (August 2008) recognizes , inter alia , the wide gap in opportunities , wages and security of women workers compared to men, discrimination and social disadvantages faced by women as well as lack of supportive structures to facilitate their employment as well reorganization of their contribution in economic activities.

   It emphasizes the need to ensure measures towards reduction of drudgery, augmenting labour potential, introduction of technology, decent working condition and higher productivity in sectors having high concentration of women workers. It underscores the need for educational and skill training for women workers and ensure that all labour regulations are subject to gender equality....