WOMEN IN SPORTS: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF MULTI-DIMENSIONAL CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN ATHLETES IN INDIA

Abstract

This paper examines different challenges that Indian women athletes face, focusing on the enduring institutional, societal, economic, and geographic constraints that impede their development. Although women's participation in sports has increased optimistically in India, structural injustices still prevent female athletes from realizing their full potential. The study emphasizes how ingrained gender stereotypes, cultural norms, and expectations deter women from participating in competitive sports. These issues are made worse by economic disparities, which include inadequate infrastructure, unequal compensation, and limited funding as compared to their male colleagues.The study also looks at regional and geographic disparities, pointing out how rural and urban areas differ in terms of training facilities and resources. Women's freedom to participate in sports is further restricted by cultural and religious factors, particularly in conservative societies. These difficulties are made worse by the intersections of caste, religion, gender, and social class. Furthermore, the systemic undervaluation of women's accomplishments is exacerbated by the absence of sponsorships and media attention for these sports. Indian women athletes continue to break prejudices and perform well at international competitions like the Olympics and Asian Games in spite of these challenges. However, the systemic biases ingrained in the sports industry cannot be addressed by individual accomplishments. Eliminating the gender pay gap, granting equitable access to infrastructure, increasing media involvement, and fostering community support are just a few of the tactics the study suggests to promote inclusion. In addition to attaining gender parity in sports, addressing these issues is crucial for changing public attitudes and motivating upcoming generations of female athletes. In order to foster a long-lasting and encouraging atmosphere that supports women's athletic talent in India, this paper concludes by proposing regulatory changes, scholarships, and grassroots projects. The study emphasizes that in order to fully realize Indian women's sporting potential, structural change is required.