Synopsis Social structures, cultural norms and value systems have great bearing on social expectations regarding the behaviour of Indian women and determine their roles and position in society. The systems, descent, family and kinship, marriage, religious traditions, education provide the ideology and moral basis for women's notions about their rights and duties. Urbanisation, industrialisation, modernisation and economic aspects such as occupation, education and income level are the variables that influence the fertility of women. The women's experiences, aspirations and range of options must play a central role as all these factors have impact on family planning, family size, population pattern and population policy. In this book an attempt has been made to understand the present status of Indian women through the ages and to analyse the various reforms and programmes for women's welfare and development. These have played decisive role in providing equal status and opportunity and freedom from exploitation and oppression to Indian women. This book with its comprehensive coverage of the topic, is a must for teachers and researchers in sociology, and women's development studies. It will also be of great interest to women's associations, social welfare agencies, policy makers and other administrative bodies concerned with women's development.