Title: Factors contributing to the gender gap in the literacy rate of Mumbai

Authors: Simone Malekar; Shamira Malekar

Addresses: The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, England ' Borough of Manhattan Community College, City University of New York, New York City, USA

Abstract: The gender bias in India is reflected in the literacy rates of its citizens. In Mumbai, the literacy rate for males is 91.48%, and females are 86.45%. This review aims to evaluate the existing literature on the effects of history and economics on the gender gap in the literacy rate of Mumbai. The methodology used will be analysing the history and economics of gender separately and in conjunction, hence, providing greater breadth. Historic factors explained are the caste system, British rule, and post-revolution India. Economic elements include socioeconomic status, opportunity cost, and quality of education available. The integrated approach will evaluate Indian economics through history and its effects on literacy rates. These subsections will explore factors implicated in gender bias throughout history, and hence provides an insight into the future of female literacy in Mumbai.

Keywords: Mumbai; gender; culture; history; education; economics; history.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGSDS.2021.112165

International Journal of Gender Studies in Developing Societies, 2021 Vol.4 No.1, pp.52 - 61

Received: 19 Apr 2020
Accepted: 16 Jun 2020
Published online: 04 Jan 2021 *

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