HEALTH LITERACY AS A TOOL FOR WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT: AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE

Women’s empowerment in India is deeply influenced by their ability to make informed health decisions. Health literacy—the capacity to access, understand, and apply health information—serves as a critical driver in enhancing women’s autonomy, improving maternal and child health, and reducing preventable diseases. This paper explores the intersection of health literacy and empowerment, focusing on how access to accurate medical knowledge, preventive care awareness, and understanding of health rights enables women to participate actively in decision-making. Drawing from case studies in rural and urban India, the paper highlights the role of government schemes, non-governmental organizations, and community health workers in promoting health literacy. Findings indicate that improved health literacy not only enhances women’s health outcomes but also strengthens their economic participation and social status. The study concludes that promoting health literacy is not merely a health intervention but a sustainable pathway to gender equality and inclusive development in India.