The Kerala government has endorsed the ambitious Women’s Policy 2026, prioritizing comprehensive gender justice. Minister Veena George confirmed the Cabinet’s approval, praising its innovative approach to societal equity.
Distinguished as India’s first policy integrating elderly dignity protections within an equality-driven structure, it confronts the state’s demographic reality: 16.5% elderly today, rising to 23% by 2036.
Developed via rigorous processes by an 11-member council—including nine meetings, one seminar, expert consultations with 72 professionals on eight themes, and inputs from 300 women across regions—the policy is thoroughly vetted.
It aims to obliterate discriminatory practices tied to caste, faith, or gender, fostering women’s full involvement in governance, lawmaking, and decision forums.
Priorities span gender-balanced employment, education, healthcare; enhanced security for senior women; fortified anti-violence protocols; and aggressive responses to online harassment and cyber threats.
Hema Committee directives will transform cinema and media into women-friendly zones. Execution oversight rests with a CM-chaired monitoring body, bolstered by Gender Resource Persons in all departments.
By weaving elderly care into gender justice, Kerala charts a progressive path, inspiring nationwide reforms for a balanced future.