In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to our recently conducted pan-India workplace wellness survey, “The Silent Struggle”, we found that 48% of corporate employees across India are at the risk of poor mental health, 56% of which are women.

But there is light at the end of the tunnel - steps can be, and are being taken to create a culture of well-being within organisations. Leaders in workplaces are increasingly taking the reins in championing mental health initiatives. Their unique perspectives and empathetic leadership styles are proving instrumental in fostering supportive work environments. Some key strategies that leaders implement to prioritise mental well-being in their organisations, include providing the necessary training and resources, creating a safe space to have conversations around such subjects, and treating those who are going through something difficult, with empathy and care. &nbsp;

Open the dialogue: Conversations and resources 

A crucial first step is to break the silence surrounding mental health. It involves acknowledging that the challenges faced by employees go beyond the professional realm. By encouraging open conversations about mental well-being, leaders can normalise seeking help and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges in the workplace.

To address these challenges effectively, providing mental health resources becomes paramount. It's about creating a support system that empowers employees to navigate the complexities of their mental well-being. Some of the ways in which this can be achieved by organising workshops, inviting mental health professionals to speak at company events, and creating safe spaces for employees to share their experiences. Whether through counselling services, workshops, or educational materials, access to resources plays a crucial role in shaping a workplace that values and prioritises mental health. Additionally, providing easily accessible mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and online support platforms, demonstrates a genuine commitment to employee well-being. &nbsp;

Building empathy into operations 

Empathy is a cornerstone of creating operational strategies that truly support mental well-being. It goes beyond policies and procedures; it's about understanding and acknowledging the human experience. Leaders who understand the&nbsp;challenges faced by their employees are better equipped to create a supportive work environment. Integrating empathy into operational strategies involves recognising that employees have lives outside of work, which helps ensure that the workplace is not just a space for professional growth but a haven that recognises and supports employees' mental health.

This might involve implementing policies that accommodate the diverse needs of employees, especially during critical life stages, like flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or compressed workweeks. It's also important to acknowledge and accommodate the needs of employees during critical life stages, such as parenthood or caring for elderly family members. By demonstrating flexibility and understanding, leaders can foster a sense of trust and loyalty among their teams. &nbsp;

The power of open communication 

Encouraging open and honest communication about mental health within organisations is essential. Leaders can set the tone by openly discussing their own experiences or challenges with mental well-being. This vulnerability can inspire employees to feel comfortable seeking help when needed, and in turn, contribute to fostering a culture that views mental health discussions as a sign of strength, not weakness.

Furthermore, creating anonymous feedback channels allows employees to voice their concerns or suggestions regarding mental health support systems within the organisation. By actively listening to employee feedback, leaders can tailor mental health initiatives to better meet the specific needs of their workforce. &nbsp;

Championing mental health in the workplace is not just the right thing to do, it's also good for business. A collective responsibility, this necessary action can cultivate a culture of well-being, which leads to organisations supporting a happier and more efficient&nbsp;workforce. Leaders play a crucial role by showing the commitment to creating an environment that prioritises the well-being of every individual. By fostering open conversations, integrating empathy into operational strategies, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, they can pave the way for a healthier, more compassionate workplace for all.

In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout.

In today's fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is no longer a luxury but a necessity. While the discourse on mental health is slowly gaining the attention it deserves, professional spheres of workplaces can often be breeding grounds for stress, anxiety, and burnout. According to our recently conducted pan-India workplace wellness survey, “The Silent Struggle”, we found that 48% of corporate employees across India are at the risk of poor mental health, 56% of which are women. But there is light at the end of the tunnel - steps can be, and are being taken to create a culture of well-being within organisations. Leaders in workplaces are increasingly taking the reins in championing mental health initiatives. Their unique perspectives and empathetic leadership styles are proving instrumental in fostering supportive work environments. Some key strategies that leaders implement to prioritise mental well-being in their organisations, include providing the necessary training and resources, creating a safe space to have conversations around such subjects, and treating those who are going through something difficult, with empathy and care. Open the dialogue: Conversations and resources A crucial first step is to break the silence surrounding mental health. It involves acknowledging that the challenges faced by employees go beyond the professional realm. By encouraging open conversations about mental well-being, leaders can normalise seeking help and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges in the workplace. To address these challenges effectively, providing mental health resources becomes paramount. It's about creating a support system that empowers employees to navigate the complexities of their mental well-being. Some of the ways in which this can be achieved by organising workshops, inviting mental health professionals to speak at company events, and creating safe spaces for employees to share their experiences. Whether through counselling services, workshops, or educational materials, access to resources plays a crucial role in shaping a workplace that values and prioritises mental health. Additionally, providing easily accessible mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and online support platforms, demonstrates a genuine commitment to employee well-being. Building empathy into operations Empathy is a cornerstone of creating operational strategies that truly support mental well-being. It goes beyond policies and procedures; it's about understanding and acknowledging the human experience. Leaders who understand the challenges faced by their employees are better equipped to create a supportive work environment. Integrating empathy into operational strategies involves recognising that employees have lives outside of work, which helps ensure that the workplace is not just a space for professional growth but a haven that recognises and supports employees' mental health. This might involve implementing policies that accommodate the diverse needs of employees, especially during critical life stages, like flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or compressed workweeks. It's also important to acknowledge and accommodate the needs of employees during critical life stages, such as parenthood or caring for elderly family members. By demonstrating flexibility and understanding, leaders can foster a sense of trust and loyalty among their teams. The power of open communication Encouraging open and honest communication about mental health within organisations is essential. Leaders can set the tone by openly discussing their own experiences or challenges with mental well-being. This vulnerability can inspire employees to feel comfortable seeking help when needed, and in turn, contribute to fostering a culture that views mental health discussions as a sign of strength, not weakness. Furthermore, creating anonymous feedback channels allows employees to voice their concerns or suggestions regarding mental health support systems within the organisation. By actively listening to employee feedback, leaders can tailor mental health initiatives to better meet the specific needs of their workforce. Championing mental health in the workplace is not just the right thing to do, it's also good for business. A collective responsibility, this necessary action can cultivate a culture of well-being, which leads to organisations supporting a happier and more efficient workforce. Leaders play a crucial role by showing the commitment to creating an environment that prioritises the well-being of every individual. By fostering open conversations, integrating empathy into operational strategies, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, they can pave the way for a healthier, more compassionate workplace for all.

Expert voice | Championing mental health - A woman leader's journey in nurturing wellness at the workplace

In the ever-evolving landscape of deep tech, it is estimated that 43% of STEM graduates in India are female – one of the highest percentages globally. However, their representation in STEM jobs within the country is staggeringly low, settling at just 14%. The underrepresentation of women remains a significant challenge. The concern is not merely about inequality, but also the resultant obstruction of the broader journey of innovation and progress. A multitude of factors, including the gender pay gap, unequal access to opportunities, and gender-based stereotypes and biases, have contributed to this disparity.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The need for increased involvement of women professionals and leaders in deep tech assumes even greater urgency in the context of our current AI boom. A study by the Stanford Social Innovation Review examined 133 AI systems across sectors and revealed that as many as 44.2% of these systems exhibited gender bias. This alarming finding underscores how female participation in the sector, especially when it comes to tasks such as AI model training, is critical for designing systems that ensure truly equitable outcomes.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Conscious inclusion, not neutrality&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Gender equity cannot be achieved passively; but requires conscious efforts to recognize and resolve biases. This shift in perspective can be achieved when organizations, as well as society at large, play an active role in supporting diversity and inclusion.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
One approach that can add value is curating L&amp;D programs tailored for women to bridge the gender gap in tech and create environments where women can contribute meaningfully to AI development. Additionally, active efforts to recruit and promote more women, through rooting out biases in hiring and evaluation processes, will go a long way towards creating a conducive environment for female professionals to thrive. 
&nbsp; 
Co-creation of technology&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Imagine a world where technology is not just created for everyone but by everyone. This is the essence of co-creation. Involving women in the design, development, and implementation of technology solutions is not just about ‘ticking a box’; but recognizing the diverse needs, perspectives, and experiences of women and harnessing them to create more inclusive and equitable technological solutions. 
&nbsp; 
Across a wide range of sectors – be it healthcare, finance, education, or transportation - including women’s perspectives in the design and development of systems, results in solutions that better meet the needs of all stakeholders, regardless of gender. 
&nbsp; 
Mentorship programmes&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Effective mentorship programmes empower experienced leaders to become guiding lights for aspiring professionals. Beyond mere knowledge-sharing, these programs endeavor to inspire younger generations of professionals. When women see other women thriving in tech leadership roles, it instills a sense of self-belief and confidence that drives them to pursue their paths to excellence. 
&nbsp; 
Consider being able to engage with a successful woman in tech leadership—a trailblazer who has walked the path you're on and overcome gender-specific challenges you face. With strong mentors by their side, women can navigate the twists and turns in their tech careers with courage and resilience, knowing that they are not alone on this journey. 
&nbsp; 
Leadership development&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Dedicated leadership development programs for women can play a key role in addressing the gender gap at the very top of organizations. These programs offer a targeted approach to skill-building, focusing on the unique challenges that women face in the industry and the skills and tools they need to overcome these obstacles and rise to leadership positions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Coaching and guidance from experienced female leaders as part of these programs will be invaluable, as they keenly understand the nuances of navigating the tech landscape as a woman. 
&nbsp; 
Flexible learning opportunities 
&nbsp; 
Flexible learning opportunities are a powerful tool for empowering women in the workplace, giving them the ability to further educate and upskill themselves without having to compromise on time with their families, or other personal commitments.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
This opens doors to exciting new possibilities for women professionals, while helping them stay ahead of the curve. Online courses that can be attended at their convenience, or part-time learning programs that can be juggled with other work responsibilities, can serve as a significant enabling factor for aspiring female leaders. 
&nbsp; 
Employee resource groups 
&nbsp; 
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) focused on gender-related issues are invaluable platforms for women to make their voices heard. It gives them an opportunity to actively participate in shaping policies and initiatives that directly impact their lives and careers. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
For instance, an ERG focused on childcare services may collaborate with HR to advocate for the implementation of on-site childcare facilities or flexible work arrangements to accommodate working parents. Through open dialogue and collaboration, ERG members can identify common challenges and work together to develop solutions that benefit all women across the organization. 
&nbsp; 
Towards a more equitable deeptech landscape 
&nbsp; 
Looking to the future of deeptech, the endeavour should be to evolve a new paradigm where gender biases are not ignored, but rather recognized and actively mitigated. At the heart of this goal lies the realization that true innovation thrives on diversity. Bringing greater numbers of women on board will unlock fresh insights and perspectives within organizations, paving the way for unparalleled advancements. L&amp;D strategies, and other interventions, tailored to address the unique challenges and concerns of women in the sector will empower them to play their part in shaping a more equitable, technology-driven future for all. 
&nbsp;

In the ever-evolving landscape of deep tech, it is estimated that 43% of STEM graduates in India are female – one of the highest percentages globally. However, their representation in STEM jobs within the country is staggeringly low, settling at just 14%.

In the ever-evolving landscape of deep tech, it is estimated that 43% of STEM graduates in India are female – one of the highest percentages globally. However, their representation in STEM jobs within the country is staggeringly low, settling at just 14%. The underrepresentation of women remains a significant challenge. The concern is not merely about inequality, but also the resultant obstruction of the broader journey of innovation and progress. A multitude of factors, including the gender pay gap, unequal access to opportunities, and gender-based stereotypes and biases, have contributed to this disparity. The need for increased involvement of women professionals and leaders in deep tech assumes even greater urgency in the context of our current AI boom. A study by the Stanford Social Innovation Review examined 133 AI systems across sectors and revealed that as many as 44.2% of these systems exhibited gender bias. This alarming finding underscores how female participation in the sector, especially when it comes to tasks such as AI model training, is critical for designing systems that ensure truly equitable outcomes. Conscious inclusion, not neutrality Gender equity cannot be achieved passively; but requires conscious efforts to recognize and resolve biases. This shift in perspective can be achieved when organizations, as well as society at large, play an active role in supporting diversity and inclusion. One approach that can add value is curating L&D programs tailored for women to bridge the gender gap in tech and create environments where women can contribute meaningfully to AI development. Additionally, active efforts to recruit and promote more women, through rooting out biases in hiring and evaluation processes, will go a long way towards creating a conducive environment for female professionals to thrive. Co-creation of technology Imagine a world where technology is not just created for everyone but by everyone. This is the essence of co-creation. Involving women in the design, development, and implementation of technology solutions is not just about ‘ticking a box’; but recognizing the diverse needs, perspectives, and experiences of women and harnessing them to create more inclusive and equitable technological solutions. Across a wide range of sectors – be it healthcare, finance, education, or transportation - including women’s perspectives in the design and development of systems, results in solutions that better meet the needs of all stakeholders, regardless of gender. Mentorship programmes Effective mentorship programmes empower experienced leaders to become guiding lights for aspiring professionals. Beyond mere knowledge-sharing, these programs endeavor to inspire younger generations of professionals. When women see other women thriving in tech leadership roles, it instills a sense of self-belief and confidence that drives them to pursue their paths to excellence. Consider being able to engage with a successful woman in tech leadership—a trailblazer who has walked the path you're on and overcome gender-specific challenges you face. With strong mentors by their side, women can navigate the twists and turns in their tech careers with courage and resilience, knowing that they are not alone on this journey. Leadership development Dedicated leadership development programs for women can play a key role in addressing the gender gap at the very top of organizations. These programs offer a targeted approach to skill-building, focusing on the unique challenges that women face in the industry and the skills and tools they need to overcome these obstacles and rise to leadership positions. Coaching and guidance from experienced female leaders as part of these programs will be invaluable, as they keenly understand the nuances of navigating the tech landscape as a woman. Flexible learning opportunities Flexible learning opportunities are a powerful tool for empowering women in the workplace, giving them the ability to further educate and upskill themselves without having to compromise on time with their families, or other personal commitments. This opens doors to exciting new possibilities for women professionals, while helping them stay ahead of the curve. Online courses that can be attended at their convenience, or part-time learning programs that can be juggled with other work responsibilities, can serve as a significant enabling factor for aspiring female leaders. Employee resource groups Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) focused on gender-related issues are invaluable platforms for women to make their voices heard. It gives them an opportunity to actively participate in shaping policies and initiatives that directly impact their lives and careers. For instance, an ERG focused on childcare services may collaborate with HR to advocate for the implementation of on-site childcare facilities or flexible work arrangements to accommodate working parents. Through open dialogue and collaboration, ERG members can identify common challenges and work together to develop solutions that benefit all women across the organization. Towards a more equitable deeptech landscape Looking to the future of deeptech, the endeavour should be to evolve a new paradigm where gender biases are not ignored, but rather recognized and actively mitigated. At the heart of this goal lies the realization that true innovation thrives on diversity. Bringing greater numbers of women on board will unlock fresh insights and perspectives within organizations, paving the way for unparalleled advancements. L&D strategies, and other interventions, tailored to address the unique challenges and concerns of women in the sector will empower them to play their part in shaping a more equitable, technology-driven future for all.

Expert voice | Empowering women in deeptech: strategies for a more equitable future

Stepping into politics and making a mark for yourself is not an easy feat the challenge is tougher for women especially when it comes to a country's power centre. But every once in a while women have broken the glass ceiling while challenging the status quo the same holds for India's women political leaders this next story celebrates the firsts in India's political history.

Indian election 2024: Breaking the glass ceiling

On Inside South Asia this week with Bhairavi Singh: India election: Focus on political parties wooing the women’s vote Floods hit Pakistan's Balochistan again. Shehbaz Sharif visits the region Nepal’s political leadership in crisis India opens key naval base in Lakshadweep close to the Maldives Dhaka Fire Tragedy Kills 46. What's causing repeated fire tragedies in Bangladesh?

Nepal's musical chairs | Celebrating South Asia's women politicians

In India, half of the electorate is female. Their vote has the power to make or break political party fortunes. It makes sense because women are their main source of votes. Today, we examine how assistance schemes are being used by the political class to court women.

Women have been voting in larger numbers in recent state polls in India

Women represent half of India's electorate. Their vote can make-or-break the fortunes of political parties. No wonder, women are key vote bank for them. Today, we look at how the political class is wooing women with welfare schemes.

Greater economic participation of women essential for India's growth

Women Voters will have a huge say in deciding the mandate this year which makes the choice for the political parties very clear about the benefits that are promised to The Women Voters. Let's hear it from our first-time women voters on their expectations from the next ruling government.

Indian elections 2024: What are the expectations of India's first-time women voters

What does leisure mean to you?&nbsp;&nbsp;

What do you like to do when you have free time on hand?&nbsp;

Do you have to claim your leisure time, or you can simply exercise it whenever you wish to?&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you are a woman, chances are that your answers to the above questions might differ from a man's.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While we challenge the age-old stereotype of looking at men as breadwinners and women as homemakers or caregivers, a lot remains unchanged at the very core. One such invisible form of suppression is the blatant disregard or denial of a woman’s right to leisure. It is so deep-seated that sometimes a woman herself isn’t aware of her free time or what she could do with it. Yes, a lot depends on the socio-economic background a woman belongs to, but it largely remains the same for women across the globe. And, this further impacts the inequalities between the two genders.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to a Pew Research Center analysis of 2021-22 American time-use, working husbands in the United States, aged between 25 to 64, spend 28 hours a week on leisure, which is two&nbsp;hours more than working wives who spend about 26 hours on it.&nbsp;

And, in India, the setting isn’t any different. India’s 2019-2020 time-use survey carried out by the National Statistical Office indicates that men spend more time than women on employment, socialising, sleeping, and eating while nearly 20 per cent&nbsp;of the average Indian woman’s day is consumed by unpaid domestic work or caregiving.&nbsp;&nbsp;

These statistics put perspective to a well-known fact that women across the globe bear the brunt of domestic chores and caregiving duties.&nbsp;

That is why when I stumbled upon a social media post last year, I was completely taken in by the pictures of women enjoying light-hearted and carefree moments. Guess, what did I see.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I saw a woman sitting on a tree.

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d16b9106-2618-463b-b538-b9bf13a91310" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T184233.124.jpg" />

Courtesy: Surabhi Yadav, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

A bunch of women farmers throwing mud at each other and laughing hard.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37a214b7-bf14-4dd8-b19c-4751a68fd65f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T184355.385.jpg" />

Courtesy: Navdeep Saini, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

A woman looking at the waves on a beach, lying down with her legs apart.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6cfe3c1a-022e-43fb-bc9b-925ec00abc0f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T184727.335.jpg" />

Courtesy: Ranjith Kumar, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

An elderly woman reading a newspaper.&nbsp;

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a028209-8480-4243-b390-6c3486af38cc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T184905.273.jpg" />

Courtesy: @yourspoove'A, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

These are just a few examples from an Instagram page called – Project Basanti: Women at Leisure - a repository of pictures and videos of women enjoying their free time. The pictures left a lasting impression on me. It is amazing to see the carefreeness of women in a physical sense.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I sent a direct message to the creator of the page - Surabhi Yadav and requested her time for a TV story. Months later, I met her in New Delhi for a story and here’s what I know of Surabhi Yadav, her project, gendered leisure – and the beauty in the ordinariness of things.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When Surabhi Yadav lost her mother in 2014, she realised she had never really known her. She says, she knew her mother just as her mother, and never more the person that she was. She started interviewing people who knew her mother closely. Surabhi’s opening question to them would be – “what do you remember about Ma (mother)?”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Her neighbours in Khargone - a small town in Madhya Pradesh, India, told her that her mother was “goofy and naughty”. Those were not the adjectives Surabhi could associate with her mother’s image. All her life Surabhi would know only one side of her mother – the woman that her mother was to her, and nothing more. It was only after the demise of her mother that she got to understand her better. Speaking to people made Surabhi recognise that her mother was capable of so much joy, pleasure, and spontaneity – something that would go unnoticed on a daily basis. This realisation triggered something in Yadav.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

And, thus, began her obsessive inquiry into what women like her mother do when they are not working, and eventually led her to start a visual project called Project Basanti: Women at Leisure in 2018. Yadav named it ‘Basanti’ after her mother, which means ‘spring’ in English - a time for blossoming. And, leisure does that to people, she says.&nbsp;

The social media project has over 800 pictures and videos of women enjoying their leisure time. It is a qualitative project which provides a definitive commentary about our society and gendered leisure.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked about what Surabhi Yadav’s takeaways from the project have been ever since she started it. She says two things have come out of the project –&nbsp;&nbsp;

One - “Leisure sets us free. It gives us space to reveal our inner selves. It lets one flourish”.&nbsp;

Two - “Leisure is a measure of how free a society is.”&nbsp;

And, yes, that’s what the pictures and videos on her social media page will tell you.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="db63c2d0-376d-4d00-8068-72d05f90b9c5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T185045.252.jpg" />

Courtesy: Ranjith Kumar, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

<img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f20bbfe7-1dd8-4277-a858-6823eb2876c6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20-%202024-03-08T185158.594.jpg" />

Courtesy: Jerusha Saptecha, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure&nbsp;

One of the earliest videos that went viral was a dancing video of Surabhi and her friend Bubbly. They are seen walking and dancing downhill in Himachal Pradesh – the northernmost state of India. It’s a time of the night, with no streetlights. Imagine women dancing late into the night with total abandon and not alarmed about who might they run into. While it may look like an ordinary moment, it does subvert the narrative and evoke powerful imagery. There are many such videos and images on the page.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

An IIT-D alumna Surabhi Yadav’s project has now expanded to pose the larger question of women’s identity and dreams – understanding the varied dimensions of their being. The more Yadav paid attention to women’s leisure, the more she started to understand the lack of leisure in a woman’s life. Women, especially homemakers, are forever, engaged in the labour of caregiving and managing homes. A kind of labour that is unpaid and unacknowledged. Yadav says that it is because of the invisibility of women’s labour, the absence of leisure in their lives also goes unnoticed. And, so, for most women, finding guilt-free, carefree time to do nothing productive, is an alien concept and a hard sight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The seemingly mundane pictures of Project Basanti are a reflection of our society. Moments of leisure often taken for granted for men, appear profound when it is a woman on the other end. That’s bizarre, but that’s exactly the gap we must address and close. &nbsp;

Yadav’s concept of leisure sounds simple, yet it is not as straightforward as it looks. It is enveloped with notions of leisure I wasn’t familiar with. She tells me of a picture where a mother is filling journals with words to process her grief over her daughter’s death. How grief can be viewed as leisure, I ask. She tells me that it is a moment where the mother is reminiscing about her time with her daughter. She is one with the child through the process of writing. The mother is uncovering her absolute inner self.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Can one be at leisure or for that matter at peace while being grief-stricken? I am not sure. Maybe, my idea of leisure is limited to seeing happy faces and broader smiles. Maybe, the real idea of leisure has no constraints. Maybe, it includes every little moment that one calls one’s own – in myriad moments from happiness to ache.&nbsp;&nbsp;

I asked Surabhi Yadav if she were to imagine a world for women, what would that be, and this is what she had to say -&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Imagine how different our world would look, if our mothers were singing, dancing, writing poetry, and enjoying their real selves. It can bring so much transformation within them and beyond them.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

I am going to leave you with that thought, this Women’s Day. Let it sit, marinate in the mind, and take a leisurely walk if it needs to.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The by-product of the thought might help you make leisure a priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And, if it does, you know the whole process was worth it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guess, that’s what leisure is all about.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 paraeid="{73dc2c9d-9fcc-4c4f-a527-23f3ec9a0209}{18}" paraid="143352739">&nbsp;</h2>

<h2 paraeid="{73dc2c9d-9fcc-4c4f-a527-23f3ec9a0209}{18}" paraid="143352739">Watch our Women’s Day special story on ‘Women at Leisure’ here:</h2>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-womens-day-2024-women-and-their-language-of-leisure-698021/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

What does leisure mean to you? What do you like to do when you have free time on hand? Do you have to claim your leisure time, or you can simply exercise it whenever you wish to?

What does leisure mean to you? What do you like to do when you have free time on hand? Do you have to claim your leisure time, or you can simply exercise it whenever you wish to? If you are a woman, chances are that your answers to the above questions might differ from a man's. While we challenge the age-old stereotype of looking at men as breadwinners and women as homemakers or caregivers, a lot remains unchanged at the very core. One such invisible form of suppression is the blatant disregard or denial of a woman’s right to leisure. It is so deep-seated that sometimes a woman herself isn’t aware of her free time or what she could do with it. Yes, a lot depends on the socio-economic background a woman belongs to, but it largely remains the same for women across the globe. And, this further impacts the inequalities between the two genders. According to a Pew Research Center analysis of 2021-22 American time-use, working husbands in the United States, aged between 25 to 64, spend 28 hours a week on leisure, which is two hours more than working wives who spend about 26 hours on it. And, in India, the setting isn’t any different. India’s 2019-2020 time-use survey carried out by the National Statistical Office indicates that men spend more time than women on employment, socialising, sleeping, and eating while nearly 20 per cent of the average Indian woman’s day is consumed by unpaid domestic work or caregiving. These statistics put perspective to a well-known fact that women across the globe bear the brunt of domestic chores and caregiving duties. That is why when I stumbled upon a social media post last year, I was completely taken in by the pictures of women enjoying light-hearted and carefree moments. Guess, what did I see. I saw a woman sitting on a tree. Courtesy: Surabhi Yadav, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure A bunch of women farmers throwing mud at each other and laughing hard. Courtesy: Navdeep Saini, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure A woman looking at the waves on a beach, lying down with her legs apart. Courtesy: Ranjith Kumar, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure An elderly woman reading a newspaper. Courtesy: @yourspoove'A, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure These are just a few examples from an Instagram page called – Project Basanti: Women at Leisure - a repository of pictures and videos of women enjoying their free time. The pictures left a lasting impression on me. It is amazing to see the carefreeness of women in a physical sense. I sent a direct message to the creator of the page - Surabhi Yadav and requested her time for a TV story. Months later, I met her in New Delhi for a story and here’s what I know of Surabhi Yadav, her project, gendered leisure – and the beauty in the ordinariness of things. When Surabhi Yadav lost her mother in 2014, she realised she had never really known her. She says, she knew her mother just as her mother, and never more the person that she was. She started interviewing people who knew her mother closely. Surabhi’s opening question to them would be – “what do you remember about Ma (mother)?” Her neighbours in Khargone - a small town in Madhya Pradesh, India, told her that her mother was “goofy and naughty”. Those were not the adjectives Surabhi could associate with her mother’s image. All her life Surabhi would know only one side of her mother – the woman that her mother was to her, and nothing more. It was only after the demise of her mother that she got to understand her better. Speaking to people made Surabhi recognise that her mother was capable of so much joy, pleasure, and spontaneity – something that would go unnoticed on a daily basis. This realisation triggered something in Yadav. And, thus, began her obsessive inquiry into what women like her mother do when they are not working, and eventually led her to start a visual project called Project Basanti: Women at Leisure in 2018. Yadav named it ‘Basanti’ after her mother, which means ‘spring’ in English - a time for blossoming. And, leisure does that to people, she says. The social media project has over 800 pictures and videos of women enjoying their leisure time. It is a qualitative project which provides a definitive commentary about our society and gendered leisure. When asked about what Surabhi Yadav’s takeaways from the project have been ever since she started it. She says two things have come out of the project – One - “Leisure sets us free. It gives us space to reveal our inner selves. It lets one flourish”. Two - “Leisure is a measure of how free a society is.” And, yes, that’s what the pictures and videos on her social media page will tell you. Courtesy: Ranjith Kumar, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure Courtesy: Jerusha Saptecha, Project Basanti: Women at Leisure One of the earliest videos that went viral was a dancing video of Surabhi and her friend Bubbly. They are seen walking and dancing downhill in Himachal Pradesh – the northernmost state of India. It’s a time of the night, with no streetlights. Imagine women dancing late into the night with total abandon and not alarmed about who might they run into. While it may look like an ordinary moment, it does subvert the narrative and evoke powerful imagery. There are many such videos and images on the page. An IIT-D alumna Surabhi Yadav’s project has now expanded to pose the larger question of women’s identity and dreams – understanding the varied dimensions of their being. The more Yadav paid attention to women’s leisure, the more she started to understand the lack of leisure in a woman’s life. Women, especially homemakers, are forever, engaged in the labour of caregiving and managing homes. A kind of labour that is unpaid and unacknowledged. Yadav says that it is because of the invisibility of women’s labour, the absence of leisure in their lives also goes unnoticed. And, so, for most women, finding guilt-free, carefree time to do nothing productive, is an alien concept and a hard sight. The seemingly mundane pictures of Project Basanti are a reflection of our society. Moments of leisure often taken for granted for men, appear profound when it is a woman on the other end. That’s bizarre, but that’s exactly the gap we must address and close. Yadav’s concept of leisure sounds simple, yet it is not as straightforward as it looks. It is enveloped with notions of leisure I wasn’t familiar with. She tells me of a picture where a mother is filling journals with words to process her grief over her daughter’s death. How grief can be viewed as leisure, I ask. She tells me that it is a moment where the mother is reminiscing about her time with her daughter. She is one with the child through the process of writing. The mother is uncovering her absolute inner self. Can one be at leisure or for that matter at peace while being grief-stricken? I am not sure. Maybe, my idea of leisure is limited to seeing happy faces and broader smiles. Maybe, the real idea of leisure has no constraints. Maybe, it includes every little moment that one calls one’s own – in myriad moments from happiness to ache. I asked Surabhi Yadav if she were to imagine a world for women, what would that be, and this is what she had to say - “Imagine how different our world would look, if our mothers were singing, dancing, writing poetry, and enjoying their real selves. It can bring so much transformation within them and beyond them.” I am going to leave you with that thought, this Women’s Day. Let it sit, marinate in the mind, and take a leisurely walk if it needs to. The by-product of the thought might help you make leisure a priority. And, if it does, you know the whole process was worth it. Guess, that’s what leisure is all about. Watch our Women’s Day special story on ‘Women at Leisure’ here:

International Women's Day 2024: Why women need to make leisure a priority

Women Voters will have a huge say in deciding the mandate this year which makes the choice for the political parties very clear about the benefits that are promised to The Women Voters.

Indian election 2024: Political parties target women voters

Wooing India's women vote-bank for the Indian elections in 2024

Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place.

It is a rare sight in the culturally conservative country, where women are typically relegated to the back seats of cars or to riding side-saddle on motorbikes, ferried by a male relative.

"Change is under way," says Zainab Safdar, demonstrating how to mount a two-wheeler while cloaked in a pink body-covering abaya.

The 40-year-old is an instructor for the "Rowdy Riders", a women-only group teaching novices in Karachi everything from the basics of balancing on a bicycle to high-octane gear changing and negotiating traffic.

Since being founded in 2017 by a handful of pioneering riders, the self-described "Rowdies" have swollen in number to more than 1,500 housewives, students and professionals.

"In the past, there were misconceptions about girls riding bikes," Safdar said, referring to doubts about their abilities. "Fortunately, with greater awareness, these notions have been dispelled."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-thanks-indian-pm-modi-for-congratulatory-wishes-on-becoming-pakistans-pm-697666">Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM</a>

Women's participation in the workforce is impacted by the limited availability of public transport services that ensure their safety.

In the sprawling megacity, granting women the skill and confidence to join legions of male bikers in the helter-skelter of congestion unlocks a new tier of freedom.

Most of the riders hail from Karachi's middle class, but rigid gender norms often still hold sway.

University lecturer Shafaq Zaman said "it took a while to get permission" from her family to start classes to master a pedal bike two months ago.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/foiled-terror-plot-pakistan-police-arrest-three-terrorist-near-adiala-jail-where-ex-pm-imran-khan-is-held-697500">Foiled terror plot: Pakistan police arrest three terrorists near Adiala jail where ex-PM Imran Khan is held</a>

Among the few dozen bikers assembled under the mid-afternoon sun, she looks on with her seven-year-old daughter Aleesha as a convoy of women open up their engines and rip past in a haze of dust.

"I am so inspired that now I have my own dream for me, that I want to ride on a heavy bike. I want to ride the whole of Pakistan," 30-year-old Zaman said.

Her story is not unusual. In Pakistan, very young boys are often seen steering motorbikes, but many of the "Rowdies" did not learn to ride a bicycle until well into adulthood.

"There should be a bike in every house, and usually there is, but it's rotting because men do not use it and women don't know how to," said Sana Kamran, sitting confidently astride a 110cc Suzuki.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/xi-urges-preparation-for-military-conflict-south-china-sea-can-face-chinese-aggression-697854">Xi urges preparation for military conflict | South-China sea can face Chinese aggression?</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/xi-urges-preparation-for-military-conflict-south-china-sea-can-face-chinese-aggression-697854/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"If women can manage household responsibilities and earn a living, why can't they ride a bike for their convenience?" the 41-year-old asked.

Motorbikes are ubiquitous across Pakistan -- most commonly red Honda models or cheaper Chinese reproductions, considered capable of mastering any terrain.

The quest to conquer a bike has seen 26-year-old Farwa Zaidi suffer multiple bone fractures -- but the injuries are a badge of honour she wears as proudly as the "Rowdy Riders" crest on her jacket.

"Here I am, standing strong," she said alongside her 70cc electric scooter.

At four feet and six inches (137 centimetres) tall, Zaidi said her small stature made it difficult to claim a spot on crammed city buses. Learning to ride gave her a new sense of possibility. "Once we master cycling, it instils a new-found confidence in our ability to conquer other challenges," she says.

Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place.

Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place. It is a rare sight in the culturally conservative country, where women are typically relegated to the back seats of cars or to riding side-saddle on motorbikes, ferried by a male relative. "Change is under way," says Zainab Safdar, demonstrating how to mount a two-wheeler while cloaked in a pink body-covering abaya. The 40-year-old is an instructor for the "Rowdy Riders", a women-only group teaching novices in Karachi everything from the basics of balancing on a bicycle to high-octane gear changing and negotiating traffic. Since being founded in 2017 by a handful of pioneering riders, the self-described "Rowdies" have swollen in number to more than 1,500 housewives, students and professionals. "In the past, there were misconceptions about girls riding bikes," Safdar said, referring to doubts about their abilities. "Fortunately, with greater awareness, these notions have been dispelled." Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM Women's participation in the workforce is impacted by the limited availability of public transport services that ensure their safety. In the sprawling megacity, granting women the skill and confidence to join legions of male bikers in the helter-skelter of congestion unlocks a new tier of freedom. Most of the riders hail from Karachi's middle class, but rigid gender norms often still hold sway. University lecturer Shafaq Zaman said "it took a while to get permission" from her family to start classes to master a pedal bike two months ago. Also Read | Foiled terror plot: Pakistan police arrest three terrorists near Adiala jail where ex-PM Imran Khan is held Among the few dozen bikers assembled under the mid-afternoon sun, she looks on with her seven-year-old daughter Aleesha as a convoy of women open up their engines and rip past in a haze of dust. "I am so inspired that now I have my own dream for me, that I want to ride on a heavy bike. I want to ride the whole of Pakistan," 30-year-old Zaman said. Her story is not unusual. In Pakistan, very young boys are often seen steering motorbikes, but many of the "Rowdies" did not learn to ride a bicycle until well into adulthood. "There should be a bike in every house, and usually there is, but it's rotting because men do not use it and women don't know how to," said Sana Kamran, sitting confidently astride a 110cc Suzuki. Watch | Xi urges preparation for military conflict | South-China sea can face Chinese aggression? × "If women can manage household responsibilities and earn a living, why can't they ride a bike for their convenience?" the 41-year-old asked. Motorbikes are ubiquitous across Pakistan -- most commonly red Honda models or cheaper Chinese reproductions, considered capable of mastering any terrain. The quest to conquer a bike has seen 26-year-old Farwa Zaidi suffer multiple bone fractures -- but the injuries are a badge of honour she wears as proudly as the "Rowdy Riders" crest on her jacket. "Here I am, standing strong," she said alongside her 70cc electric scooter. At four feet and six inches (137 centimetres) tall, Zaidi said her small stature made it difficult to claim a spot on crammed city buses. Learning to ride gave her a new sense of possibility. "Once we master cycling, it instils a new-found confidence in our ability to conquer other challenges," she says.

Pakistan's women 'rowdy riders' take on traffic and tradition

Will women have the right to vote in Independent India? This was perhaps the only question on which every member of the constituency assembly post-1947 was on the same page. Watch to know it all!

Indian elections 2024: Women in politics then vs now

Over 470 million women are eligible to cast their vote in the upcoming General Elections in India, nearly half of the total number of eligible voters. And Indian political parties are pulling out all stops to woo women voters with a range of schemes and programmes tailored to their needs. We focus on women and the vote in this Women's Day special report.

Women power in Indian elections

Boko Haram inflicted Horrors in Nigeria are in focus again nearly 50 women have been abducted allegedly by the Islamist rebels in a remote area of Northeastern Nigeria's Borno State.

Islamist Rebels kidnap nearly 50 women in Nigeria

New study shows how the effects of climate change on income and adaptation in rural areas vary with gender, wealth and age.

Climate change widens income gap for rural women in India: UN report

The Delhi government has announced its budget for the financial year 2024-25. Finance minister Atishi presented the budget in the state assembly and spoke about how Delhi has transformed in the last 10 years under the Aam Aadmi Party government.

Delhi Govt presents FY25 budget, focus on SOPs & 'Ram Rajya'

In India, rural women frequently encounter restricted job prospects and financial challenges. However, a new initiative spearheaded by the Indian government, the 'Drone Didi Scheme', has the potential to reverse this trend. This programme offers rural women a valuable chance to learn new skills, overcome obstacles, and attain economic autonomy. Here's an in-depth look at the initiative.

Drone Didi: Indian PM Narendra Modi's scheme empowering rural women

The conventional belief that psychopathy predominantly manifests in men is being challenged by recent research suggesting a significant presence of female psychopaths. Dr&nbsp;Clive Boddy, an expert in corporate psychopathy at Anglia Ruskin University, contests the commonly cited ratio of male to female psychopaths in a <a href="https://www.aru.ac.uk/news/female-psychopaths-more-common-than-we-think">new study</a>, suggesting a potentially significant underestimation of female psychopathy prevalence, as reported by the Guardian.

<h2>Challenging gender stereotypes in psychopathy</h2>

Contrary to popular perception, Dr Boddy argues that psychopathic traits, such as insincerity, deceitfulness, and lack of empathy, are not exclusively male characteristics. He suggests that societal gender biases may lead to the under-recognition of female psychopathy, even when these traits are exhibited by women.

“People generally attribute psychopathic characteristics to males rather than to females,” Dr Boddy said in a&nbsp;report. “So even when females display some of the key traits associated with psychopathy - such as being insincere, deceitful, antagonistic, unempathetic and lacking in emotional depth - because these are seen as male characteristics they may not be labelled as such, even when they should be,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-how-placentas-role-in-brain-development-is-linked-to-child-cognition-694753">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists discover how placenta's role in brain development is linked to child cognition</a>

Psychopaths are typically characterised by a lack of empathy, engagement in antisocial behavior, frequent lying, and displays of ruthlessness and manipulation.

“The behaviour of female psychopaths seems to be subtle enough and less obvious than male psychopaths and therefore they're not recognised as much,” Dr Boddy said.

“A small but mounting body of evidence describes female psychopaths as prone to expressing violence verbally rather than physically, with the violence being of a relational and emotional nature, more subtle and less obvious than that expressed by male psychopaths,” he added.

Dr&nbsp;Boddy notes that female psychopaths employ tactics of deceit and seduction with greater frequency compared to their male counterparts in order to attain social and financial benefits.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/vaping-e-cigarette-chemicals-may-heighten-covid-susceptibility-new-study-reveals-694617">Also read |&nbsp;Are you vaping? E-cigarette chemicals may increase risk of Covid infection, says new study</a>

He said, “Female psychopaths, while not as severely psychopathic or as psychopathic as often as males are, have nevertheless been underestimated in their incidence levels and are therefore more of a potential threat to business and society than anyone previously suspected. This has implications for the criminal justice system because current risk management decisions involving partners and children may be faulty. It also has implications for organisational leadership selection decisions because female leaders cannot automatically be assumed to be more honest, caring and concerned with issues such as corporate social responsibility.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The conventional belief that psychopathy predominantly manifests in men is being challenged by recent research suggesting a significant presence of female psychopaths.

The conventional belief that psychopathy predominantly manifests in men is being challenged by recent research suggesting a significant presence of female psychopaths. Dr Clive Boddy, an expert in corporate psychopathy at Anglia Ruskin University, contests the commonly cited ratio of male to female psychopaths in a new study, suggesting a potentially significant underestimation of female psychopathy prevalence, as reported by the Guardian. Challenging gender stereotypes in psychopathy Contrary to popular perception, Dr Boddy argues that psychopathic traits, such as insincerity, deceitfulness, and lack of empathy, are not exclusively male characteristics. He suggests that societal gender biases may lead to the under-recognition of female psychopathy, even when these traits are exhibited by women. “People generally attribute psychopathic characteristics to males rather than to females,” Dr Boddy said in a report. “So even when females display some of the key traits associated with psychopathy - such as being insincere, deceitful, antagonistic, unempathetic and lacking in emotional depth - because these are seen as male characteristics they may not be labelled as such, even when they should be,” he added. Also read | Scientists discover how placenta's role in brain development is linked to child cognition Psychopaths are typically characterised by a lack of empathy, engagement in antisocial behavior, frequent lying, and displays of ruthlessness and manipulation. “The behaviour of female psychopaths seems to be subtle enough and less obvious than male psychopaths and therefore they're not recognised as much,” Dr Boddy said. “A small but mounting body of evidence describes female psychopaths as prone to expressing violence verbally rather than physically, with the violence being of a relational and emotional nature, more subtle and less obvious than that expressed by male psychopaths,” he added. Dr Boddy notes that female psychopaths employ tactics of deceit and seduction with greater frequency compared to their male counterparts in order to attain social and financial benefits. Also read | Are you vaping? E-cigarette chemicals may increase risk of Covid infection, says new study He said, “Female psychopaths, while not as severely psychopathic or as psychopathic as often as males are, have nevertheless been underestimated in their incidence levels and are therefore more of a potential threat to business and society than anyone previously suspected. This has implications for the criminal justice system because current risk management decisions involving partners and children may be faulty. It also has implications for organisational leadership selection decisions because female leaders cannot automatically be assumed to be more honest, caring and concerned with issues such as corporate social responsibility.” (With inputs from agencies)

More women might be psychopaths than we think, new study suggests

On tonight's episode, we shed the spotlight on the women in Pakistan who are braving the violence in the country and standing up for democracy. While a record number of female candidates are contesting the polls, it still represents a dismal percentage of women participating in the country's politics. In some parts, ordinary women are not even allowed to cast their vote. As challenges multiply in the country, how can Pakistan ensure more political participation for women? What do you think is the way ahead?

Gravitas | Pak Elections: The brave women fighting poll violence, and gender gap

In Pakistan, nearly 128.5 million people have been registered as voters for the general elections which will be held on February 8, as per the latest data.&nbsp;

This number of people registered as voters constitutes nearly half of its population.&nbsp;

As per reports, women in some regions of Pakistan are barred from voting even though the country has the fifth-highest number of registered voters globally, with only India, Indonesia, the United States, and Brazil leading ahead.&nbsp;

The 60-year-old former headmistress Naeem Kausir as well as her seven daughters, six of whom have already been to college, are not allowed to vote by their family's male elders, just like other women in her town.

"Whether by her husband, father, son or brother, a woman is forced. She lacks the autonomy to make decisions independently," said Kausir, who was covering her face using a veil.&nbsp;

"These men lack the courage to grant women their rights," said the widow, while speaking to AFP.

Even though voting is a constitutional right for all adults present in Pakistan, a patriarchal system is still dominant in some rural areas of the socially conservative country as the male village elders wield significant influence on their communities.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-isi-agent-working-at-indian-embassy-in-moscow-arrested-from-meerut-686836">Indian Embassy employee in Moscow arrested for spying, links to Pakistan’s ISI</a>

In Dhurnal, a village in Punjab which is home to thousands of people, men give different reasons for the ban on voting for more than 50 years.

"Several years ago, during a period of low literacy rates, a council chairman decreed that if men went out to vote, and women followed suit, who would manage the household and childcare responsibilities," said Malik Muhammad, the village council's member.

"This disruption, just for one vote, was deemed unnecessary," he added.&nbsp;

Shopkeeper Muhammad Aslam has claimed that the ban has been protecting women from "local hostilities" regarding politics. Meanwhile, while speaking to AFP it was simply down to "tradition".

<h2>Election Commission says it has authority to declare process null and void</h2>

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has emphasised that it carries the authority to declare a process null and void in any constituency where women are being stopped from voting.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan gears up for polls | WION visits Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province ahead of polls

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-gears-up-for-polls-wion-visits-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-province-ahead-of-polls-687397/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the country's hinterland, progress has been slow outside of cities and in areas which operate under tribal norms, as millions of women still remain uncounted on the electoral rolls.

In Dhurnal, the elders rely on neighbouring villages to fill a government-imposed quota, as per which 10 per cent of votes cast in every constituency should be by women.

Those who are permitted to vote are often pressured to choose a candidate of a male relative's choice.

(With inputs from agencies)

In Pakistan, nearly 128.5 million people have been registered as voters for the general elections which will be held on February 8, as per the latest data. This number of people registered as voters constitutes nearly half of its population.

In Pakistan, nearly 128.5 million people have been registered as voters for the general elections which will be held on February 8, as per the latest data. This number of people registered as voters constitutes nearly half of its population. As per reports, women in some regions of Pakistan are barred from voting even though the country has the fifth-highest number of registered voters globally, with only India, Indonesia, the United States, and Brazil leading ahead. The 60-year-old former headmistress Naeem Kausir as well as her seven daughters, six of whom have already been to college, are not allowed to vote by their family's male elders, just like other women in her town. "Whether by her husband, father, son or brother, a woman is forced. She lacks the autonomy to make decisions independently," said Kausir, who was covering her face using a veil. "These men lack the courage to grant women their rights," said the widow, while speaking to AFP. Even though voting is a constitutional right for all adults present in Pakistan, a patriarchal system is still dominant in some rural areas of the socially conservative country as the male village elders wield significant influence on their communities. Also read: Indian Embassy employee in Moscow arrested for spying, links to Pakistan’s ISI In Dhurnal, a village in Punjab which is home to thousands of people, men give different reasons for the ban on voting for more than 50 years. "Several years ago, during a period of low literacy rates, a council chairman decreed that if men went out to vote, and women followed suit, who would manage the household and childcare responsibilities," said Malik Muhammad, the village council's member. "This disruption, just for one vote, was deemed unnecessary," he added. Shopkeeper Muhammad Aslam has claimed that the ban has been protecting women from "local hostilities" regarding politics. Meanwhile, while speaking to AFP it was simply down to "tradition". Election Commission says it has authority to declare process null and void The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has emphasised that it carries the authority to declare a process null and void in any constituency where women are being stopped from voting. Watch: Pakistan gears up for polls | WION visits Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province ahead of polls In the country's hinterland, progress has been slow outside of cities and in areas which operate under tribal norms, as millions of women still remain uncounted on the electoral rolls. In Dhurnal, the elders rely on neighbouring villages to fill a government-imposed quota, as per which 10 per cent of votes cast in every constituency should be by women. Those who are permitted to vote are often pressured to choose a candidate of a male relative's choice. (With inputs from agencies)

In this Pakistani village, women are barred from voting by their husbands

Perched on her weathered charpai, Naeem Kausir confesses timidly that she would prefer to vote in Pakistan's upcoming elections if only her husband would give her permission. Watch this video to know the whole story.

Pakistan elections 2024: Pakistani women barred from voting by their husbands

An international team led by scientists at Stanford University has unveiled a potential explanation for the long-standing puzzle of why the majority, about 80 percent, of autoimmune disease patients are women.

The research, published in the journal Cell, identifies a key player: a molecule called Xist, only found in women, which seems to be a major contributor to autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

The study revealed that Xist, responsible for silencing one of the X chromosomes in females (XX) to prevent protein from overproducing, also forms molecular complexes linked to autoimmune diseases. While much of the research was conducted in mice, human patients with autoimmune diseases demonstrated a chemical response triggered by Xist complexes.

"Clearly there’s got to be more, because one-tenth of lupus patients are men. So it’s not the only answer, but it’s a very interesting piece of the puzzle," Dr David Karp, Chief of Rheumatic Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center said.&nbsp;

<h2>Implications for diagnosis&nbsp;</h2>

Understanding the role of the Xist molecule opens the door to potential advancements in diagnostics and treatments. The discovery may lead to new tests for early detection of autoimmune diseases and, in the long term, innovative therapeutic approaches.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hazardous-asteroid-6-times-wider-than-qutub-minars-height-to-fly-past-earth-on-feb-2-686104">‘Hazardous asteroid’ 6 times wider than Qutub Minar’s height to fly past Earth on Feb 2</a>

"The sky’s the limit here. Once you understand the fundamental mechanisms, you could think about developing therapies, early detection, and preventions," Dr. Jeffrey A. Sparks, Brigham and Women’s Hospital said.&nbsp;

While the revelation does not explain how men acquire autoimmune diseases or the gender imbalance in specific conditions like Type 1 diabetes, it marked a significant step toward unraveling the complexities of these illnesses.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/using-phone-first-thing-in-morning-can-give-you-headache-for-rest-of-the-day-experts-685975">Using phone first thing in morning can give you headache for rest of the day: Experts</a>

"This work takes it in a totally different direction, and says that the mechanism that is needed to turn off the second X chromosome might be responsible for generating autoimmunity." - Dr. David Karp, UT Southwestern Medical Center

While major treatment advances may be years away, the newfound understanding of Xist's role provides hope for progress in managing autoimmune diseases.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-starbucks-new-brew-infused-with-olive-oil-and-backlash-686118">Gravitas | Starbucks' new brew infused with olive oil and backlash</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-starbucks-new-brew-infused-with-olive-oil-and-backlash-686118/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We’ve made progress like this study to better understand what it is that triggers it," Stephanie Buxhoeveden, PhD Candidate in Nursing, Managing Multiple Sclerosis said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An international team led by scientists at Stanford University has unveiled a potential explanation for the long-standing puzzle of why the majority, about 80 percent, of autoimmune disease patients are women.

An international team led by scientists at Stanford University has unveiled a potential explanation for the long-standing puzzle of why the majority, about 80 percent, of autoimmune disease patients are women. The research, published in the journal Cell, identifies a key player: a molecule called Xist, only found in women, which seems to be a major contributor to autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. The study revealed that Xist, responsible for silencing one of the X chromosomes in females (XX) to prevent protein from overproducing, also forms molecular complexes linked to autoimmune diseases. While much of the research was conducted in mice, human patients with autoimmune diseases demonstrated a chemical response triggered by Xist complexes. "Clearly there’s got to be more, because one-tenth of lupus patients are men. So it’s not the only answer, but it’s a very interesting piece of the puzzle," Dr David Karp, Chief of Rheumatic Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center said. Implications for diagnosis Understanding the role of the Xist molecule opens the door to potential advancements in diagnostics and treatments. The discovery may lead to new tests for early detection of autoimmune diseases and, in the long term, innovative therapeutic approaches. Also Read | ‘Hazardous asteroid’ 6 times wider than Qutub Minar’s height to fly past Earth on Feb 2 "The sky’s the limit here. Once you understand the fundamental mechanisms, you could think about developing therapies, early detection, and preventions," Dr. Jeffrey A. Sparks, Brigham and Women’s Hospital said. While the revelation does not explain how men acquire autoimmune diseases or the gender imbalance in specific conditions like Type 1 diabetes, it marked a significant step toward unraveling the complexities of these illnesses. Also Read | Using phone first thing in morning can give you headache for rest of the day: Experts "This work takes it in a totally different direction, and says that the mechanism that is needed to turn off the second X chromosome might be responsible for generating autoimmunity." - Dr. David Karp, UT Southwestern Medical Center While major treatment advances may be years away, the newfound understanding of Xist's role provides hope for progress in managing autoimmune diseases. Watch | Gravitas | Starbucks' new brew infused with olive oil and backlash × "We’ve made progress like this study to better understand what it is that triggers it," Stephanie Buxhoeveden, PhD Candidate in Nursing, Managing Multiple Sclerosis said. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive clue found solving why 80 pc of autoimmune patients are women

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal disorder that is commonly found in nearly 10 per cent of the woman population, has been linked with potential cognitive issues in midlife, as per a new study.

The research, which was published in Neurology, was carried out by the University of California, San Francisco. The study was conducted on 907 female participants, who were aged 18 to 30, for a time span of 30 years.&nbsp;

PCOS has long been known to have symptoms like excess body hair or missed periods. However, cognitive dysfunction later in life has now been added to the list of other potential effect of the disease.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Scientists unveil secrets of imagination, memory formation with Artificial Intelligence">Scientists unveil secrets of imagination, memory formation with Artificial Intelligence</a>

Speaking to CNN, professor and director of the Women’s Mental Health Research Programme at the University of Illinois Chicago, &nbsp;Pauline Maki said that the scientific report “is one of the few studies to investigate cognitive functioning and brain outcomes in those women at midlife."

As per the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, telltale signs can include “menstrual cycle changes, skin changes such as increased facial and body hair and acne, abnormal growths in the ovaries, and infertility".&nbsp;

<h2>Study emphasises on 'potential cognitive vulnerabilities' in women with PCOS</h2>

In a press release, the director of the University of California San Francisco’s PCOS clinic and research programme Dr Heather G Huddleston said, “While (PCOS) has been linked to metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes that can lead to heart problems, less is known about how this condition affects brain health."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-sense-of-smell-linked-to-cognitive-health-673506/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“Our results suggest that people with this condition have lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes in midlife. This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success and financial security," he added.&nbsp;

The findings have emphasised “potential cognitive vulnerabilities in women with PCOS, though it’s important to know that these are cognitive weaknesses, not impairments,” said Maki.&nbsp;

“In other words, they are performing worse than other women on these tests, but they are not performing in the impaired range," the professor added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal disorder that is commonly found in nearly 10 per cent of the woman population, has been linked with potential cognitive issues in midlife, as per a new study.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal disorder that is commonly found in nearly 10 per cent of the woman population, has been linked with potential cognitive issues in midlife, as per a new study. The research, which was published in Neurology, was carried out by the University of California, San Francisco. The study was conducted on 907 female participants, who were aged 18 to 30, for a time span of 30 years. PCOS has long been known to have symptoms like excess body hair or missed periods. However, cognitive dysfunction later in life has now been added to the list of other potential effect of the disease. Also read: Scientists unveil secrets of imagination, memory formation with Artificial Intelligence Speaking to CNN, professor and director of the Women’s Mental Health Research Programme at the University of Illinois Chicago, Pauline Maki said that the scientific report “is one of the few studies to investigate cognitive functioning and brain outcomes in those women at midlife." As per the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, telltale signs can include “menstrual cycle changes, skin changes such as increased facial and body hair and acne, abnormal growths in the ovaries, and infertility". Study emphasises on 'potential cognitive vulnerabilities' in women with PCOS In a press release, the director of the University of California San Francisco’s PCOS clinic and research programme Dr Heather G Huddleston said, “While (PCOS) has been linked to metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes that can lead to heart problems, less is known about how this condition affects brain health." Watch: Is sense of smell linked to cognitive health? “Our results suggest that people with this condition have lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes in midlife. This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success and financial security," he added. The findings have emphasised “potential cognitive vulnerabilities in women with PCOS, though it’s important to know that these are cognitive weaknesses, not impairments,” said Maki. “In other words, they are performing worse than other women on these tests, but they are not performing in the impaired range," the professor added. (With inputs from agencies)

Women suffering from PCOS may face difficulty in memory and thinking: study

With an aim to boost participation of women in the country's workforce, India's Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) have launched a survey to gather details about female workers already part of the workforce. The government has also issued an advisory on the matter.

The Employee's Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), which is one of world's largest social security agencies, has begun sending a survey on mobile devices in India. The survey is being sent via SMS, WhatsApp and even e-mails. The survey includes a questionnaire which has questions about the recipients' workplaces and support they provide to female workers. The survey also asks the recipients to rate their workplaces and asks about facilities such as late-night transportation, internal committee for handling sexual harassment complaints, childcare centres and more.

“The employers’ rating survey (is) to help us gauge the progress and efforts of employers based on specific facilities," said a senior WCD ministry official as quoted by Mint.

“This initiative is a step towards accountability and recognition of those who actively contribute to a more inclusive work environment."

The official was not named in the news report.

Watch | India RBI slams&nbsp;Paytm payments bank

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-rbi-hits-paytm-payments-bank-685628/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

In October last year, India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the Periodic Labour Force Survey Report 2022-23. The report noted that female participation in the labour force had shown uptick of 4.2 percentage points to 37 per cent in 2023.

<h2>Centre issues advisory on the matter</h2>

The Ministry Labour on January 30 released an advisory to employers asking them to promote gender equality in the workplace and ensure women employees' participation and take steps for empowerment of women.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2024-what-to-expect-for-indias-railway-sector-685601">Budget 2024: What to expect for India’s railway sector?</a>

Smriti Irani, Union Minister for Women &amp; Child Development and Minority Affairs was present at the event in New Delhi during which the guidelines were issued. She commended Ministry of Labour for the steps it had taken.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2024-health-sector-expects-increase-in-spending-to-improve-quality-685614">Budget 2024: health sector expects increase in spending to improve quality</a>

“We are proudly a part of Digital Democracy under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister and today more than 24 crore women across the country have bank accounts,” she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

With an aim to boost participation of women in the country's workforce, India's Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) have launched a survey to gather details about female workers already part of the workforce.

With an aim to boost participation of women in the country's workforce, India's Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) have launched a survey to gather details about female workers already part of the workforce. The government has also issued an advisory on the matter. The Employee's Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), which is one of world's largest social security agencies, has begun sending a survey on mobile devices in India. The survey is being sent via SMS, WhatsApp and even e-mails. The survey includes a questionnaire which has questions about the recipients' workplaces and support they provide to female workers. The survey also asks the recipients to rate their workplaces and asks about facilities such as late-night transportation, internal committee for handling sexual harassment complaints, childcare centres and more. “The employers’ rating survey (is) to help us gauge the progress and efforts of employers based on specific facilities," said a senior WCD ministry official as quoted by Mint. “This initiative is a step towards accountability and recognition of those who actively contribute to a more inclusive work environment." The official was not named in the news report. Watch | India RBI slams Paytm payments bank × In October last year, India's Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released the Periodic Labour Force Survey Report 2022-23. The report noted that female participation in the labour force had shown uptick of 4.2 percentage points to 37 per cent in 2023. Centre issues advisory on the matter The Ministry Labour on January 30 released an advisory to employers asking them to promote gender equality in the workplace and ensure women employees' participation and take steps for empowerment of women. Also Read | Budget 2024: What to expect for India’s railway sector? Smriti Irani, Union Minister for Women & Child Development and Minority Affairs was present at the event in New Delhi during which the guidelines were issued. She commended Ministry of Labour for the steps it had taken. Also Read | Budget 2024: health sector expects increase in spending to improve quality “We are proudly a part of Digital Democracy under the leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister and today more than 24 crore women across the country have bank accounts,” she said. (With inputs from agencies)

India releases advisory, survey to boost women’s participation in workforce

A report by the center for Monitoring the Indian Economy highlights the significant disparity between women's enrollment in schools and their representation in the workforce. The report shows that only 10% of working-age Indian women were either employed or actively seeking jobs in 2022.

Only 10% of working-age Indian women engaged in the workforce: Report

Only 10% Indian women employed or seeking jobs

Afghanistan's Taliban government has completed the country's first road link with China, extending the country's previous democratically-elected government's aim for increased connectivity and trade with its eastern neighbour.

China fails to strike connectivity goal with Taliban amid security threats in Xinjiang: Report

India is celebrating its 75th Republic Day today. The day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. The 75th Republic Day, is being celebrated with a focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (women empowerment) and 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India). A remarkable departure this year is the musical prelude led by 100 women playing traditional instruments like the 'Sankh,' 'Nadaswaram,' and 'Nagada,' marking a historic moment as they lead the parade.

Republic Day Parade 2024: Over 13,000 special guests attend the Republic Day Parade

India's upcoming interim budget on February 1 is highly anticipated, especially by the nation's women. With the general elections looming, the government is expected to unveil policies that empower women and boost their participation in the economy.

Financial Support for Female Farmers

One of the most anticipated announcements is a potential doubling of the annual payout to landowning women. This move, estimated to cost the government an additional $1.44 billion, could resonate with female voters and provide much-needed financial support to a crucial segment of the population.

Boosting Women Entrepreneurship

The budget is also expected to focus on supporting women entrepreneurs, particularly in smaller cities. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and women entrepreneurship platforms have already been helpful, but there is a demand for greater mentorship and networking opportunities.

Increasing Female Labor Force Participation

India's female labour force participation rate currently stands at 24%, contributing about 17% to the GDP. The government is expected to announce a 25% increase in allocation towards women-centric schemes compared to 2023, aiming to drive up these numbers and ensure greater inclusion of women in the workforce.

A Budget for Gender Equity

India's women have high hopes for the upcoming budget, seeing it as an opportunity to kickstart a revolution in gender budgeting. Empowering women is not just about social justice; it is also about unlocking their full potential and making them equal stakeholders in India's growth story.

February 1 budget will be closely watched not only by India's women but also by policymakers and economists around the world. It has the potential to set a precedent for gender-inclusive budgeting and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for India.

India's upcoming interim budget on February 1 is highly anticipated, especially by the nation's women. With the general elections looming, the government is expected to unveil policies that empower women and boost their participation in the economy.

India's upcoming interim budget on February 1 is highly anticipated, especially by the nation's women. With the general elections looming, the government is expected to unveil policies that empower women and boost their participation in the economy. Financial Support for Female Farmers One of the most anticipated announcements is a potential doubling of the annual payout to landowning women. This move, estimated to cost the government an additional $1.44 billion, could resonate with female voters and provide much-needed financial support to a crucial segment of the population. Boosting Women Entrepreneurship The budget is also expected to focus on supporting women entrepreneurs, particularly in smaller cities. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and women entrepreneurship platforms have already been helpful, but there is a demand for greater mentorship and networking opportunities. Increasing Female Labor Force Participation India's female labour force participation rate currently stands at 24%, contributing about 17% to the GDP. The government is expected to announce a 25% increase in allocation towards women-centric schemes compared to 2023, aiming to drive up these numbers and ensure greater inclusion of women in the workforce. A Budget for Gender Equity India's women have high hopes for the upcoming budget, seeing it as an opportunity to kickstart a revolution in gender budgeting. Empowering women is not just about social justice; it is also about unlocking their full potential and making them equal stakeholders in India's growth story. February 1 budget will be closely watched not only by India's women but also by policymakers and economists around the world. It has the potential to set a precedent for gender-inclusive budgeting and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for India.

Budget 2024: India’s women hope for greater gender equity

Some pregnant women in Kanpur, an Indian city in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, have requested doctors to carry out C-section deliveries on January 22, the day of the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

Some pregnant women in Kanpur, an Indian city in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, have requested doctors to carry out C-section deliveries on January 22, the day of the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Several women asked the doctors at the Maternal Child Hospital under the Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical College, Kanpur, to have a caesarean delivery on January 22, reported Local 18. As many as 15 women have approached the doctors with the request. Not only the government but many private hospitals have also received such appeals. Dr Seema Dwivedi, a doctor at the GSVM Medical College, said many women have requested their delivery dates to be "when Ram Lalla arrives." "The arrangements are being made for 35 caesarean operations on January 22," Dr Dwivedi told news agency PTI. Expectant mothers believe their child will have the same qualities as Lord Ram if born on the Ram Temple consecration ceremony day. "The time and moment of birth of a child is special. The condition and direction of a child's life arise from the time of his birth. In such a situation, auspicious time is always good for the welfare of children. At the same time, on January 22, the consecration of Lord Ramlala is taking place at the best time. For this reason, a large number of pregnant women are requesting to deliver on this day," she added. ALSO READ | Ram Mandir: Temple's consecration ceremony in Ayodhya to be live-streamed at New York's Times Square What is unique about January 22? According to Hindu astrology, January 22 aligns with Abhijit Muhurat, starting at 11:51 am local time and ending at 12:33 pm. It is an auspicious time for Hindus as Lord Shiva killed the demon Tripurasur during this period. As per Hindu mythology, this period removes negative energies from one's life. On January 22, the Mrigashira Nakshatra, considered a good omen for the consecration ceremony, will begin at 03:52 am and last until 04:58 am on January 23. Mahant Govind Dev Giri, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, said that Amrit Siddhi Yoga and Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga will also coincide on January 22, making it an auspicious time for the Ram Temple consecration ceremony. Champat Rai, the general secretary of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Trust, compared the date to India's Independence Day. "January 22 is as important as August 15. It is equally important as getting Kargil back, and as much as the detention of a lakh soldiers was important in 1971," he said, as reported by ANI news agency. (With inputs from agencies)

Ram Mandir: Pregnant women in this Indian city request delivery on consecration day

As per a new research, men enjoy a significant advantage over women when they apply for any Chinese government jobs. The Inspection Squad for Workplace Gender Discrimination&nbsp;analysed the data of annual recruitment drive for the national civil service and discovered that more government positions were kept reserved for men in comparison to w omen.

The report, which was first published early in December, observed the job requirements for all government positions which were advertised in October, one month before the annual civil service exam which all candidates need to pass if they wish to secure a permanent government job.

It was found by the team that in around 40,000 jobs which were advertised, many had specified that they were “men-only” or “women-only” job opportunities. In these job opportunities, 10,981 jobs were earmarked for men in comparison to only 7,550 for women.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwans-unification-with-china-will-surely-happen-says-xi-jinping-on-maos-anniversary-673983">Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary</a>

The difference between the two genders equates to around 8.7 per cent of all the jobs which were advertised. In the data's further analysis, it was found that the situation of gender discrimination is worst in the provincial bureaus of central government agencies, like the People’s Bank of China or the Ministry of Railways, where more than 40 per cent of the job opportunities have gender preferences.

<h2>Gender preferences dominate job market</h2>

Among the different positions, only the revenue service, census, statistics and customs agencies have an even gender split while the others have been hiring more men than women.

“Those who do not take part in the exam or do not sign up for particular positions may not realise the obvious gender restrictions in the exam,” said the author of the report, who uses the alias Wang Lin. “We wanted to give an objective description of the situation," he added, the South China Morning Post reported.&nbsp;

Wang is among the group of volunteers who have been making efforts for the past nine years to improve workplace gender equality, using social media to mention in public examples of gender discrimination and filing complaints to government departments.

Watch:&nbsp;China reasserts sovereignty claims over Taiwan, Xi Jinping vows Taiwan reunification&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-reasserts-sovereignty-claims-over-taiwan-xi-jinping-vows-taiwan-reunification-world-dna-673878/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This year, a record 2.83 million applicants applied to appear in the exams amid the sluggish economic recovery of the country, which topped the 2.5 million that signed up in 2022.

The South China Morning Post, while looking into the requirements for the applications of this year on the government’s website, found that many “remarks” which were mentioned under the postings included additional job requirements which were not mentioned in the official job description.&nbsp;

In a few of these requirements, it was stated that the jobs are for fresh college graduates and for people, who have a particular skill set, however, many others mentioned that jobs are “men only” or “women only”.

(With inputs from agencies)

As per a new research, men enjoy a significant advantage over women when they apply for any Chinese government jobs. The Inspection Squad for Workplace Gender Discrimination analysed the data of annual recruitment drive for the national civil service and discovered that more government positions were kept reserved for men in comparison to w omen.

As per a new research, men enjoy a significant advantage over women when they apply for any Chinese government jobs. The Inspection Squad for Workplace Gender Discrimination analysed the data of annual recruitment drive for the national civil service and discovered that more government positions were kept reserved for men in comparison to w omen. The report, which was first published early in December, observed the job requirements for all government positions which were advertised in October, one month before the annual civil service exam which all candidates need to pass if they wish to secure a permanent government job. It was found by the team that in around 40,000 jobs which were advertised, many had specified that they were “men-only” or “women-only” job opportunities. In these job opportunities, 10,981 jobs were earmarked for men in comparison to only 7,550 for women. Also read: Taiwan’s unification with China ‘will surely’ happen, says Xi Jinping on Mao’s anniversary The difference between the two genders equates to around 8.7 per cent of all the jobs which were advertised. In the data's further analysis, it was found that the situation of gender discrimination is worst in the provincial bureaus of central government agencies, like the People’s Bank of China or the Ministry of Railways, where more than 40 per cent of the job opportunities have gender preferences. Gender preferences dominate job market Among the different positions, only the revenue service, census, statistics and customs agencies have an even gender split while the others have been hiring more men than women. “Those who do not take part in the exam or do not sign up for particular positions may not realise the obvious gender restrictions in the exam,” said the author of the report, who uses the alias Wang Lin. “We wanted to give an objective description of the situation," he added, the South China Morning Post reported. Wang is among the group of volunteers who have been making efforts for the past nine years to improve workplace gender equality, using social media to mention in public examples of gender discrimination and filing complaints to government departments. Watch: China reasserts sovereignty claims over Taiwan, Xi Jinping vows Taiwan reunification This year, a record 2.83 million applicants applied to appear in the exams amid the sluggish economic recovery of the country, which topped the 2.5 million that signed up in 2022. The South China Morning Post, while looking into the requirements for the applications of this year on the government’s website, found that many “remarks” which were mentioned under the postings included additional job requirements which were not mentioned in the official job description. In a few of these requirements, it was stated that the jobs are for fresh college graduates and for people, who have a particular skill set, however, many others mentioned that jobs are “men only” or “women only”. (With inputs from agencies)

Men enjoy significant advantage over women in Chinese government jobs, says study

women

Women, News on Women, stories on Women, articles on Women, Women stories at Wion, Women news, Women latest news