India has fallen two spots to 131st out of 148 countries in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2025, registering a low gender parity score of 64.1% and ranking among South Asia’s weakest performers. While modest gains were made in economic participation - rising by 0.9 points to 40.7% - and educational attainment (97.1%) and health/survival improved, the sharp decline in political empowerment dragged India down .

Female representation in Parliament dropped from 14.7% to 13.8%, and women in ministerial roles decreased from 6.5% to 5.6%, marking a worrying regression in leadership roles. In contrast, Bangladesh surged ahead, securing 24th place - highlighting India's comparative stagnation .

Globally, the gender gap has closed 68.8%, the fastest annual rate since the pandemic - but at this pace, full parity remains over a century away . Experts stress that without bold reforms - like stronger political representation, legal protections, and workforce inclusion - India risks being left behind in the global push for gender equality.