Q.5. Critically examine the contributions of major women’s organisations in contemporary India.

Women’s organizations in India have played an important role in the nationalistic movements by encouraging women to play an important part in the Indian freedom struggle. Contributions of major women’s organizations in contemporary India:

1. The Women’s Indian Association (WIA):
   • Establishment: Founded in 1917 by Annie Besant.
   • Objectives:
     • Promoted women’s education and empowerment.
     • Advocated for women’s suffrage and political rights.
     • Focused on social reform and gender equality.
   • Significance: The WIA played a crucial role in raising awareness about women’s issues and advocating for their rights.
2. The National Council of Women in India (NCWI):
   • Formation: Established in 1925.
   • Objectives:
     • Worked for women’s welfare and social justice.
     • Addressed issues related to health, education, and employment.
     • Promoted gender equality and women’s participation in public life.
   • Impact: The NCWI contributed to policy discussions and influenced legislative reforms.
3. The All India Women’s Conference (AIWC):
   • Founding: Founded in 1927 by Margaret Cousins.
   • Focus Areas:
     • Advocated for women’s rights, education, and healthcare.
     • Worked on legal reforms related to marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
     • Supported women’s economic empowerment.
   • Achievements: The AIWC played a significant role in shaping women’s policies and promoting gender justice.
4. Women in the National and Labor Movements:
   • Kalpana Dutta, associated with the Chittagong armory raid.
   • Nonibala Devi, part of the Jugantar party and arrested for transporting weapons.
   • Preetilata Waddedar, another Chittagong revolutionary.
   • Captain Lakshmi Sehgal, a prominent freedom fighter.

Challenges and Ongoing Struggles:

• Despite their contributions, women’s organizations continue to face challenges related to gender-based violence, unequal representation, and economic disparities.
• The fight for gender justice and women’s empowerment remains ongoing.

In summary, these women’s organizations have played pivotal roles in advocating for women’s rights, education, and social reform. However, the struggle for gender equality continues, and their contributions remain critical in contemporary India.