Title : Empowered still enduring: The paradox of continuing domestic violence through lens of NHFS 5
Abstract:
Introduction: The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) reveals a complex picture of women’s lives in India, highlighting both strides in empowerment and persistent challenges. While a significant number of women are now participating in household decisions and gaining access to education and employment, the shadow of domestic violence still looms large.
Materials and Methods: This is a cross- sectional analysis of fact sheets of NHFS 5, from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW), were retrieved for secondary data analysis (2019-2020). The focus was on assessing empowerment indicators and prevalence of domestic violence in all the strata.
Results: Employment rate in currently married women age 15-49 years was 32%. 85% women participate in decision making about their own earnings. 71% women made decision jointly with their husband about the use of his earnings. Women participation in decision making is 80%. 11% women make use of microcredit programme. 42% women have freedom of movement in all three specified places. 35.8% of women employed for cash have ever experienced physical violence. Yet 45% give justification for beating by their husband.
Conclusion: Even though women are now more involved in household decision-making and have greater access to education and employment opportunities, the prevalence of domestic violence remains alarmingly high. By addressing both empowerment and violence, we can work towards a future where every woman can live a life with dignity, free from fear and full of opportunities.
