Identify and discuss the challenges hindering effective implementation of gender-sensitive policies and schemes in the country.

India downgraded from Rank 129 to (13) in the Gender Gap Index, 2025 portraying lack of effective implementation of gender sensitive policies. Implementation Gaps: Naksre Vardore, Sureya, Indira Gandhi Mahila Yojana, PoshHAN Act 2013 Challenge hindering effective implementation: (1) Policy formulation - a) top down approach with minimal gender involuntary (Ref.) - Hump in Lok Sabha b) Lack of gender Budgeting in Budget (2) Bureaucratic inefficiency a) Lack of gender sensitivity especially for transgenders (> 30 sexual harassment by police) - NCRB b) Adult shaming amongst women & transpeople due to lack of confidence. (3) Other awareness a) Lack of know-how to avail benefits (Ref.) - Financial literacy in women CWWD - 29% b) Attitudinal shaming amongst women & transpeople due to lack of confidence. (4) Social support - inadequate civil society penetration for gender inclusive programme. c) Patriarchal mindset hampering actual transfer of benefits (Ref.) (Sarpanch Paki) Way forward: (1) Gender Budgeting at top level (SDG FC - Article 243 (2) Women-led operations should take part in policy input (Ref.) SEVA (3) Empowerment of Aganwads centres to implement policies d) Attorney generals & confidence building (Ref.) (ACC female policewalahs Inclusion of gender-parity in overall social fabric will promote 'Nari-Shakti' & bring literacy to all be achievable.