Content :
- Transforming ‘men’-talities, redefining masculinity
- Indians abroad
Transforming ‘men’-talities, redefining masculinity
Context : Violence Against Women as a “Men’s Issue”
- Violence against women is predominantly perpetrated by men, but it is ultimately a societal issue that involves men in a transformative way.
- Men must recognize their role in both perpetuating and addressing gender-based violence.
Relevance : GS 1(Society )
Practice Question : Discuss the role of men in challenging traditional notions of masculinity and promoting gender equality. Use examples from initiatives like UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities and other relevant programs to support your answer. (250 Words)
The Role of Traditional Masculine Norms:
- Traditional masculine ideals are often based on aggression, dominance, emotional suppression, and control.
- These norms harm women by justifying violence and limit men’s emotional expression and healthy relationships.
Need for Change in Masculinity:
- There is a need to redefine masculinity to emphasize empathy, respect, and non-violence.
- Traditional notions of masculinity should be replaced with a more inclusive, equitable definition of manhood.
The Importance of Engaging Men in Gender Equality:
- Men’s active involvement in gender equality efforts is crucial.
- Men need to see themselves as allies and agents of change, not just passive supporters of gender equality.
UNESCO’s Transforming MENtalities Initiative:
- The initiative works to engage men and boys as active participants in gender equality, focusing on dismantling rigid gender norms.
- It aims to promote positive masculinity through education, dialogue, and community-driven actions.
Pioneering Programs in India:
- Mardon Wali Baat (A Man’s Thing): Uses storytelling and social media to engage young men in discussions about positive masculinity and gender equality.
- Gender Equity Movement in Schools (GEMS): Uses interactive classroom activities to help adolescent boys recognize and challenge toxic masculinity.
- Dekh Rekh (Caring for Each Other): Encourages men’s active participation in family responsibilities, like nutrition and planning.
- Hamari Shaadi (Our Marriage): Addresses gender bias through everyday actions, encouraging men’s involvement in domestic roles.
The Role of Positive Role Models:
- Public figures, such as athletes and celebrities, can play a significant role by demonstrating equitable behaviors, such as shared parenting and rejecting violence.
- These actions can challenge traditional gender roles and normalize gender equality at a societal level.
Reflecting on Masculine Privileges:
- Men need to reflect on the privileges that patriarchy provides them and the pressures that come with these privileges.
- To contribute to societal change, men must be willing to question these privileges and adopt more equitable attitudes.
Challenges in Achieving Gender Equality:
- While progress has been made, the journey towards achieving true gender equality requires sustained effort and engagement from both men and women.
- Shifting deeply ingrained societal norms and changing attitudes towards masculinity are long-term processes that require continued advocacy and action.
Indians Abroad
Context : Introduction to the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the inauguration of the 18th edition of PBD, described the Indian diaspora as India’s “ambassadors to the world.”
- The diaspora, which exceeds 35 million people worldwide, has contributed significantly to the development of both the countries they reside in and India itself.
- The PBD aims to celebrate the diaspora’s success, and also serves as a platform to address important issues affecting the community.
- The event, held annually around January 9, commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915.
Relevance : GS 2(Diaspora)
Practice Question:Examine the role of the Indian diaspora in global development and discuss the challenges they face. What measures should the Indian government take to address the issues of migration and enhance the welfare of the diaspora.(250 Words)
Achievements of the Indian Diaspora:
- The diaspora is celebrated for its assimilation into local societies, active community service, and substantial contributions to various fields, including politics.
- Indian-origin people have become leaders in over 30 countries globally.
- With a large proportion of the diaspora being Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), their distinguished services in professional spheres are acknowledged.
The Broader Agenda of PBD:
- While celebrating success, it is important that PBD is not reduced to a self-congratulatory exercise. There is a need to discuss challenges facing the diaspora, especially those who are still Indian nationals.
- Issues such as the rise of far-right populist governments and their impact on visa and entry conditions need to be addressed.
- The event should also focus on the precarious situations that Indians face in regions like West Asia, where over 9 million Indians live and work, especially in light of ongoing global conflicts.
Challenges Facing the Indian Diaspora:
- Rise of Far-Right Populism: The increasing prevalence of far-right populist governments, particularly in the West, is making it more difficult for Indians to enter or remain in foreign countries. This challenge needs urgent attention from the Indian government.
- Global Conflicts: The diaspora, especially in regions like West Asia, faces significant risks due to intractable global conflicts. Discussions during PBD should focus on how to safeguard and protect these communities.
Economic Migration as a Key Driver:
- One of the largest drivers of migration for Indians is the lack of economic opportunities within India. While the diaspora’s success is celebrated, it is essential to acknowledge the loss of skilled and talented people to other countries.
- This loss must be considered in the context of the broader issue of India’s developmental challenges. While there is no easy fix to this problem, the government should focus on creating better opportunities within India to prevent further brain drain.
The Need for Inclusive and Non-Partisan Engagement:
- India’s relationship with its diaspora must be inclusive and free from political partisanship. There is a growing concern about government actions that seem to target individuals or groups based on their political stance.
- The engagement with the diaspora should focus on constructive dialogue, mutual benefit, and safeguarding the interests of Indian nationals abroad.
