Question 20Analyze the socio-cultural factors contributing to the high attrition rate among women in STEM careers in India. Suggest measures to improve their retention in STEM.GS2GS1
Analyze the socio-cultural factors contributing to the high attrition rate among women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers in India. Suggest measures to improve their retention in STEM.
Introduction
STEM still has a very low participation of women in India. Women are pushed into either arts courses or asked to do the chores instead of confining education.
28 words
Main Body
Factors Responsible for high attrition of women in STEM:
1Early marriage in rural India → discontinue education
2Patriarchal mindset
3Perceived lack of safety in STEM jobs
4Need of waving away from home to pursue STEM jobs discourage women
5Low awareness of opportunities
6Lack of jobs and high unemployment discharge women
7No investment in education of women
8Perception that women must do the household labour
9Maternity issues
Measures to improve Retention of women in STEM:
1Women-centric policies Ex - women reservation in NITs engineering seat
2Reduced fees for women
3Spreading awareness among parents of girl students
4Scholarships with help of private sector. Ex - Adobe women India
5Women fully recruitment drives
6Sensitive policies like maternity leaves
7Work from home on hybrid model of work
8Creches at STEM workplaces for care of children
Women must be taken along in the STEM revolution in order to reap it's full potential.
164 words3 paragraphs
- Comprehensive identification of socio-cultural barriers
- Distinction between rural and urban context (early marriage in rural areas)
- Practical suggestions with examples
- Addresses both systemic and personal barriers
- Includes recognition of maternity as a key factor
Topper
Rishabh Sharma
AIR 116
Subject & Paper
GS2GS1
Topic
Role of Women and Women's Organization
Women
Women in STEM careers
Writing Stats
192
Total words
3
Paragraphs
Analytical and prescriptive
Tone