Which of the following statements are correct with respect to the status of women in India in the 18th century?
(a) There were efforts to promote widow remarriage during the period.
(b) Women from every section of society worked in the fields.
(c) Women generally married after attaining adolescence.
(d) Women all across the country were subjected to complete male control.

Question

Which of the following statements are correct with respect to the status of women in India in the 18th century?
(a) There were efforts to promote widow remarriage during the period.
(b) Women from every section of society worked in the fields.
(c) Women generally married after attaining adolescence.
(d) Women all across the country were subjected to complete male control.

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

There were efforts by certain rulers and social reformers during the 18th century to address the issues faced by women, including widow remarriage. Examples include the efforts of Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur and Ahilyabai Holkar who took measures to improve the condition of women, though not necessarily focused on widow remarriage in an organized way.
Incorrect options :

(b) While women did work in various capacities across different social strata, it was not true that women from every section of society worked in the fields. In rural areas, some women worked in agriculture, but in urban areas or among higher castes, the role of women in the workforce was often limited.

(c) In the 18th century, many women were married at a young age, often before reaching adolescence. Child marriage was prevalent during this period, and it was not typical for women to marry after attaining adolescence.

(d) While patriarchy was widespread, it is not entirely accurate to state that all women across India were subjected to complete male control. Some regions, like Kerala with its matrilineal system, allowed more freedom for women, although male dominance was the general norm across much of India.

Status of Women in 18th Century India

Social Conditions and Gender Roles

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
Which of the following statements are correct with respect to the status of women in India in the 18th century? (a) There were efforts to promote widow remarriage during the period. (b) Women from every section of society worked in the fields. (c) Women generally married after attaining adolescence. (d) Women all across the country were subjected to complete male control.