Give an account of gender disparity in literacy in West Bengal. Identify schemes implemented by the government of West Bengal to solve this problem.

Gender disparity in literacy has been a longstanding issue in West Bengal, as well as in many parts of India. While the state has made significant progress in improving overall literacy rates, there still exists a notable gap between male and female literacy rates. This disparity can be attributed to various socio-economic and cultural factors. Here's an account of gender disparity in literacy in West Bengal and the schemes implemented by the government to address this problem:-

Gender Disparity in Literacy in West Bengal:-

Historically, West Bengal has had a higher focus on education compared to many other states in India. However, gender disparity in literacy rates has persisted due to factors such as:

1. Social Norms and Cultural Barriers: Prevailing societal norms and traditional gender roles often limit girls' access to education. Early marriages, domestic responsibilities, and the perception of education as less important for girls contribute to lower enrollment and higher dropout rates among females.

2. Economic Factors: In economically disadvantaged families, sending boys to school is often prioritized over girls. Girls may be expected to contribute to household chores or informal labor to supplement family income.

3. Lack of Infrastructure: In rural areas, the lack of proper infrastructure, including safe transportation and separate toilet facilities for girls, can discourage parents from sending their daughters to school.

4. Security Concerns: Concerns about the safety of girls while traveling to and from school, especially in remote areas, can deter parents from allowing their daughters to attend school.

5. Language Barrier: In some areas, the language of instruction may not be the local language, which can pose a barrier to education for girls from marginalized communities.

Government Schemes to Address Gender Disparity in Literacy:-

To tackle gender disparity in literacy and promote girls' education, the government of West Bengal has implemented various schemes and initiatives:

1. Kanyashree Prakalpa: Launched in 2013, this is one of the flagship schemes of the West Bengal government to empower girls. It offers conditional cash transfers and scholarships to encourage girls' education, delay marriages, and reduce dropout rates.

2. Sabala: This scheme focuses on improving adolescent girls' overall development, including education, health, and life skills. It provides a package of services to enhance girls' capabilities and support their education.

3. Sikshashree: This scheme aims to provide financial support to Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe students, with a focus on girls, to encourage their enrollment and retention in schools.

4. Swami Vivekananda Merit-Cum-Means Scholarship Scheme: While not exclusively targeted at girls, this scheme provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students, including girls, pursuing higher education.

5. Midday Meal Scheme: Providing nutritious meals in schools encourages parents to send their children, including girls, to school. It also helps alleviate economic barriers.

6. Awareness Campaigns: The government runs awareness campaigns to sensitize parents and communities about the importance of girls' education, dispelling myths, and addressing cultural barriers.

7. Stipends and Scholarships: Various stipends and scholarships are provided to girls from economically weaker sections to encourage them to continue their education.

8. Infrastructure Development: The government works to improve school infrastructure, including separate toilets for girls, which can significantly impact girls' attendance and retention.

9. ICT in Education: Integrating information and communication technology in education can make learning more engaging and accessible, benefiting both boys and girls.

These schemes and initiatives reflect the government's commitment to bridging the gender gap in literacy and promoting girls' education. While progress has been made, sustained efforts are needed to address the root causes of gender disparity and ensure that girls have equal access to quality education in West Bengal.