Synopsis The empowerment of women is one of the central issues in the process of development of countries all over the world. India has a glorious tradition of recognizing the importance of empowering women over several centuries now. The contribution of writers and social reformers has been well documented. The Government of India has made empowerment of women as one of the principal objectives of the ninth, Five Year Plan and also declared 2001 as the year of 'women's empowerment'. The present book demonstrates the current status of Indian women and powerful strategies which will help women to overcome discrimination, achieve full equality, well being and participation in the decisions that determine their lives and the future of their communities. It will be a highly valuable reference tool for policy makers, development leaders, academicians and women empowerment agencies.