differences between these two sexes-when we use the word gender , however we are going
beyond anatomical/biological differences between male and female to their socially
constituted roles and status. For example ,when one uses the word feminity the social
expectations of feminine qualities may be nurturing , caring , delicate, irrational initiative,
submission ,non-aggression etc. "The word gender" is often used as a synonym for "sex". Sex,
refers to biological characteristics and features that make someone female or male. Gender
has also been misused as a synonym for "women" or "female". For the present study, Jammu
and Kashmir is chosen as unit of the study. The state of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the
largest states of the India. It lies between 32o-15’ and 37o-05’ North latitude and 72o-35’ and
83o-20’ East longitude. The area of Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is 101387sq.k m and
it comprises three natural regions viz., Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Various Data sources
primarily include Census of India 2011 and supplemented with State Digest of Statistics and
other published work wherever necessary. A most evident reflection of gender discrimination
can been seen at the alarming decline rate in sex ratio,be it at the national level or to the
matter the J&K state.
In case of J&K state, as depicted from various surveys, reports and census, gender
inequality is clearly a matter of concern. Taking education as a starting point, there is nearly
27% gap between males and females in case of literacy rate. It clearly reflects the attitude of
the society towards female education. Although, the literacy rate of education of females has
increased from 9.28% to 49.12%, yet it is evident that gender gap has increased from 17.47
to 27.63. One of the greatest concern, so far as gender discrimination is concerned is that of
male-female sex ratio. J&K is categorized in those states which have the worst sex ratio.
Despite several steps taken state government or non-government organizations , it seems that
they have failed to curb this social menace. J&K has shown 82 points decrease in census 2011
to 883.