Synopsis Gender equality is a constituent as well as an instrument of development. No country can be deemed developed if half of its population is severely disadvantaged in terms of basic needs, livelihood options, access to knowledge, and political voice. Gender equality is an instrument of development because without it national goals will be difficult to achieve as, for example, poverty alleviation, population planning, family welfare and environmental sustainability. Over the years, efforts have been made to empower women socially, economically and politically. However, due to lack of synergy and coordination, the outcomes are not satisfactory. It is imperative that an integrated policy and strategy be formulated that addresses economic, social and political empowerment of women along with the requisite programmes and schemes. Though the constitutional commitments to women have been translated through the planning process, legislation, policies and programmes over the last six decades yet the economic status of women reflects less than satisfactory achievements in almost all important human development indicators. The present book contains 20 theoretical and research contributions related to women issues. The book has addressed various aspects of women's welfare in India like health, economic status, education, governance and political participation. It presents a comprehensive and systematic account of issues, activities, programmes, projects and experiences from different parts of India. This book will be useful to graduate and post graduate students of home science and psychology as well as women's polytechnics in universities and institutes of higher education. It will also serve the needs of activists, academicians, practitioners, policy makers and planners engaged in welfare of women.