STUDY OF WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN KANDHI SUBDIVISION OF MURSHIDABAD DISTRICT IN WEST BENGAL, INDIA

Women empowerment is a crucial element for achieving social justice and sustainable development. In rural areas of India, women often face socio-economic disadvantages due to poverty, lack of education, and traditional gender norms. The present qualitative study examines the status of women empowerment in Kandhi subdivision of Murshidabad district in West Bengal. The study explores the role of education, government welfare schemes, and socio-cultural factors influencing the empowerment of women in the region. The analysis is mainly based on secondary data collected from books, research articles, government reports, and policy documents. The findings reveal that although government initiatives, educational expansion, and self-help groups have contributed to improving women’s socio-economic status, challenges such as limited employment opportunities, early marriage, and patriarchal attitudes still hinder full empowerment. The study suggests that strengthening educational access, enhancing economic opportunities, and increasing social awareness are essential for sustainable women empowerment in the region.