Women’s Land Ownership in India: The Impact of Caste and Religion

Abstract

This study empirically examines the role of caste and religion in shaping women’s land ownership in India using data from the National Sample Survey Office 77th round survey. The findings reveal significant disparities in land ownership among women across religious and caste lines. Hindu, Muslim and Christian women are consistently less likely to own land compared to those from other religious backgrounds, reflecting the influence of religious laws and customs on property rights. Similarly, women from Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Classes face heightened barriers to land ownership, highlighting socio-economic inequalities perpetuated by the caste system. Addressing legal ambiguities, cultural norms and socio-economic inequalities can foster a more inclusive and equitable land ownership landscape, empowering women economically and socially. Such measures contribute to broader goals of sustainable development and gender equality as outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Keywords

Women land ownership caste religion microfinance National Sample Survey Office data

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