31/05/2026

NFHS-6 Reports Gains and Challenges for Indian Women

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6) data for 2023-24 reveals mixed outcomes for Indian women. School attendance rose to 73.7%, up from 71.8% in NFHS-5, while internet usage nearly doubled to 64.3%. However, women's property ownership remains low, at 18.8%. The survey shows a slight decline in early marriages, with 20.1% of women aged 20-24 married before 18. Violence against women also decreased, with 22.3% reporting spousal violence, down from 29.2%. Notably, Kerala reported an increase in spousal violence. Tobacco and alcohol use among men and women has declined, but significant gender disparities persist, with 34.6% of men and 7.2% of women using tobacco. These findings highlight ongoing social constraints despite educational and digital advancements.

Published 17 hours ago • 30 May 2026, 08:32 PM IST

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