Sagarika Dey is Professor of Economics at Assam University, Silchar. She obtained her Ph.D. in Economics from Assam University in 2013. Her research interests include labour economics, rural livelihoods, gender and development, human development, migration, and poverty. She has published over fifty research papers and book chapters in national and international publications and has guided several doctoral scholars. Her research focuses on labour market outcomes, livelihood diversification, human development, gender, and social inclusion, with particular emphasis on the socio-economic context of North East India.

Manash Roy is Senior Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics, Assam University, Silchar, where he has been serving since 2010. He completed his postgraduate studies at Gauhati University, M.Phil. at the University of Hyderabad, and Ph.D. at Assam University. His teaching and research interests include demography, population studies, human development, inclusive finance, and count data modelling. He has published nearly fifty research papers in reputed national and international journals, including Economic & Political Weekly, as well as chapters in several edited volumes.

Distinguishing Features Of This Book

Gender Dividend in India: Progress, Gaps and Policy Pathways brings together scholarly perspectives on the evolving role of gender in India’s development journey. The volume examines the opportunities, challenges, and persistent gaps that shape women’s participation in economic, social, and institutional spheres, with particular attention to the ways in which gender equality can contribute to inclusive and sustainable development. Drawing on diverse perspectives and evidence-based research, the contributions in this volume explore key dimensions of the gender dividend, including women’s education, employment, economic participation, social well-being, empowerment, and access to opportunities. The volume also highlights the structural and institutional barriers that continue to constrain the realization of women’s full potential. By bringing together academic insights and policyoriented perspectives, this book seeks to contribute to the ongoing discourse on gender and development in India. It will be of interest to researchers, academicians, policymakers, students, and all those concerned with advancing gender equality and inclusive development.At a time when India aspires to realize the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, effectively harnessing the gender dividend is not merely a matter of social justice but an essential component of the country’s development strategy. This volume seeks to contribute to that larger national conversation.