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1. Introduction
Researchers have often emphasized on the poor labor force participation and regular employment of females in India (Bhan, 2001; Singh, 2012a; Singh, Das and Agrawal, 2013). One of the main reasons behind the poor condition of women as far as employment is concerned is the rampant gender-based discrimination in India (Bhan, 2001; Singh, 2012a; Pande and Astone, 2005). Few instances indicate that gender discrimination in India is not new and can be traced to the ancient times as well. For example, Manusmriti, one of the most important and widely studied ancient legal text among many “Dharmaśāstras” of Hinduism which dates back to at least second century BC, mentions that “woman should obey and seek protection of either her father or husband or her son at different points of time; and also worship her husband as a god and never seek to live independently” (verses 2.67-2.69 and 5.148-5.155, Olivelle, 2005). Further, it is commonly believed that the root cause of gender inequality in the Indian society lies in its patriarchy system. As per the eminent Sociologist Sylvia Walby—patriarchy is “a system of social structure and practices in which men dominate, oppress and exploit women” and women’s exploitation is an age-old cultural phenomenon of the Indian society.
After independence in 1947 and adoption of Indian Constitution in 1950, it was believed that the condition of women in India would improve. The Preamble of the Constitution mentions about goals of achieving social, economic and political justice for everyone and to provide equality of status and opportunity to all its citizens. Also, women are given equal rights to vote. The Constitution provides for prohibition of discrimination on grounds of sex apart from religion, race, caste or place of birth, etc. The Constitution also authorizes the state to make special provisions for women and children. Further, the “Directive Principles of State Policy” also call for various provisions which are for the benefit of women and to safeguard them against any discrimination. But unfortunately, India still suffers from severe gender-based discrimination in education, employment, health, nutrition and other outcome measures (Bhan, 2001; Singh, 2012a; Pande and Astone, 2005).
There are ample evidence across the world that show education, health, occupation and other outcomes of children (particularly female children)...