Women's Influence in Family Decisions: A Study of Urban Households in Hamirpur City of Himachal Pradesh

This study examines the role of women in economic and social decision-making within Hamirpur district, Himachal Pradesh, using both primary and secondary data. This study uses structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions with 150 female respondents who were purposively sampled. The importance of the nuclear family for decision-making power is 60% higher among women, and financial independence significantly influences empowerment in the household. However, key decisions about finances and property are still male-dominated. Women take a role in children's education, but not in core religious and high finance affairs where their participation is limited to 48 percent. Despite rising employment rates (61.3%), traditional gender roles still dominate joint and extended households. This study highlights some policy implications including raising awareness on financial literacy, joint ownership of bank accounts and fostering skills-based jobs that enhance women's ability to make decisions.