India, March 8 -- Over the last two decades, India has made significant strides in advancing gender equality. The country has witnessed remarkable improvements on education and health indicators. The gross enrollment ratio in education for women increased four-fold from 6.7% in 2000 to 28.4% in 2022 and maternal mortality rate has declined from 384 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 103 in 2020. 1.4 million women in local government in India make up about 46% of panchayat (local council) seats, demonstrating the pipeline for political leaders for state and national parliaments where gender gaps are still large.

Government policies and resourcing alongside private sector investments have been instrumental in narrowing these systemi...