Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Introduce the answer with a statement that sets a context that suicide among women is increasing.
• Discuss the factors responsible behind incresing suicides among women and some possible solutions to this problem.
• Conclude with a positive note that suicide is preventable through collective efforts.

Introduction

In 2021, women comprised 27% of India's suicides, with homemakers, students, and daily wage laborers being the most affected, per the National Crime Records Bureau. This underscores a critical societal concern.

Body

Some Factors Behind This Are:

• Economic Dimensions: Lack of adequate economic opportunities and economic overdependence cause helplessness and hopelessness.
• Early Marriage and Post Marriage Issues: Forced early marriages, dowry demands, marital and family conflicts, marital rape, emotional abuse, and mental health stigma lead to despair and isolation.
• Sexual Harassment and Violence: Underreported sexual harassment and violence cause trauma and mental health problems.
• Media Influence and Unrealistic Expectations: Idealized images of beauty and success, online harassment, and cyberbullying create low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction.

Some Possible Solutions Are:

• Emotional Fitness Programs: Including emotional intelligence, resilience, and stress management skills in schools and colleges curriculum.
• Accessible Mental Health Services: Provide mental health services in rural and underserved areas through mobile clinics, telemedicine, and community-based programs.
• AI-Powered Upskilling Platforms: Develop online platforms that personalize skill development programs for homemakers.
• Social Media Literacy: Promote social media literacy programs that teach critical thinking skills to young women.

Conclusion

Suicide among young women is a preventable tragedy that can be avoided with timely and appropriate interventions. It is the collective responsibility of the society to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all young women, irrespective of their age, background, and economic conditions, and to ensure their mental health and well-being.