Gender budgeting ensures government spending addresses gender inequality by allocating resources to programs benefiting women.
Introduced in Union Budget 2005-06 to mainstream gender in fiscal policies Share in total expenditure rose to 6.8% in 2024 from 4.5% in 2014 Recognised globally for advancing gender-oriented goals.
Economic Growth: Women’s participation can significantly boost GDP Social Development: Ensures better access to healthcare, education, and housing for women. Empowerment: Encourages financial independence and decision-making for women.
₹3.27 lakh crore allocated (18.9% increase from 2023-24) Key Areas- Housing for poor families LPG connections for underprivileged households, Rural development initiatives
Challenges- Need for transparency and accountability in fund allocation Future Plans- Proposed Gender Budgeting Act for stronger legal backing and better classification of expenditures to improve effectiveness Vision- Gender budgeting as a tool for sustainable and inclusive economic growth