Synopsis Tremendous changes have been recorded in the nature and intensity of the problems now being encountered by different segments of women in different socio-economic-cultural locales of the country. A paradigm shift is therefore needed in the approach and methodology empowering them. A vital pre-requisite to do so is to map out the transformed empowerment tasks. However, this is what is lacking in most exercises attempting situation analysis, identification of the areas of intervention, planning and designing programmes, organization structures and processes to deliver the intended services and inputs to produce desired outcomes and impacts. Viewed in this backdrop, this volume is an outstanding departure from the previous studies. This collection of 26 very carefully selected studies is first serious attempt to begin mapping out the specifics of the situation analyses and thereby facilitating diversified solutions calibrated to meet the specific requirements and contextualities of women's empowerment in India. In dealing with the contemporary tasks of women's empowerment, it covers this larger task space under five major sub-themes. These are: masculinity and violence on women; survival, reproduction and protection from Lethal threats; issues in access, choice and substance in education: presence, agency and control of women in traditional economic activities; and space, voice, and turbulence in the newer sectors of economy. This very original and authentic account of changed contexts and transformed tasks of empowerment of Indian women in the twenty first century will certainly interest all those involved with women's issues and particularly those wedded to more effective ways of empowering the Indian women.