FEMALE AUTONOMY IN RURAL NORTH INDIA: IMPACT OF ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, AND POLITICAL FACTORS

This paper attempts to answer a number of questions concerning factors which influence female autonomy as measured by mobility in rural north India (Uttar Pradesh). It is hypothesized that a female autonomy outside the home is influenced by social, economic, and political factors. The results of the empirical analysis indicate that the availability of certain types of infrastructure along with off-farm employment opportunities at the village level have a positive influence on female autonomy. In terms of the political structure of local government, there is no evidence to support the notion that having a female Pradhan will result in greater female autonomy. However, female autonomy is enhanced if the Pradhan is from a scheduled caste and/or the Pradhan has significant political experience. Data for the 2000s shows improvements in female autonomy and female participation in local government in Uttar Pradesh. However, significant challenges continue to remain. The results have important policy implications.