Author(s): Lakshay Sharma, Salineeta Chaudhuri, Shalini Singh, Shubhanker Yadav, Parvi Bharti Singhal, Nutan Singh
Objectives: The current research investigates the impact of female socio-economic empowerment on environmental challenges in the Indian subcontinent, with a focus on water availability, air quality, and soil quality. Methods- The methodology for this research employs panel regression analysis to examine the relationship between female socio-economic participation and environmental sustainability indicators across six countries in the Indian subcontinent: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The study spans the period from 2000 to 2020, utilising panel data primarily sourced from the World Bank’s database. Key independent variables include Female Labour Force Participation, Female Education, women’s representation in politics, and the maternal mortality ratio, while the dependent variables consist of environmental indicators such as Water Availability, air quality, and soil quality. Results- Utilising panel regression analysis across six countries from 2000 to 2020, the study finds that increased female labour force participation and gender parity in education significantly enhance sustainability practices (Sharma et al., 2024). Additionally, the analysis identifies barriers to female empowerment, including entrenched social norms, educational disparities, and economic challenges (Baijal & Alam, 2017; Abbasi, 2016). Policy recommendations to promote female empowerment and sustainable development include enhancing girls' educational access, implementing economic empowerment programs, and strengthening legal protections for women (Kaul Shali, 2018). Conclusion- The findings underscore that empowering women is essential for achieving both gender equality and sustainable environmental outcomes in the region, highlighting the interconnectedness of social and ecological systems.