ECOFEMINIST CRITIQUE IN INDIA: UNVEILING ENVIRONMENTAL AND GENDERED CONNECTIONS
Sonobar Khatun
English Literature
July 2023
This study investigates the historical development of ecofeminism in India and analyzes the interconnectedness between environmental degradation and the subordination of women, with a specific focus on how patriarchal structures contribute to the exploitation of both women and the environment. A mixed-methods research approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, was adopted to gain a comprehensive understanding of the research topic. Purposive sampling was used to select key informants for interviews, including ecofeminist thinkers, activists, scholars, and representatives of influential ecofeminist movements or organizations in India. Surveys were administered to a diverse sample of individuals involved in ecofeminist movements. The data collected encompassed demographic information, indicators of environmental degradation, women's subordination, and patriarchal structures. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data, while quantitative data was subjected to statistical analysis techniques. The findings highlight the emergence of ecofeminism in India, key thinkers in the field, and influential ecofeminist movements. Environmental degradation indicators reveal significant challenges such as deforestation, water and air pollution, land degradation, and loss of biodiversity. Women's subordination indicators underscore gender-based disparities and violence against women, including the gender wage gap, low women's representation in Parliament, child marriage, and domestic violence. Patriarchal structures and exploitation indicators demonstrate the unequal distribution of power and resources. The research findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between environmental degradation, women's subordination, and patriarchal structures in India. They provide valuable insights for promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and sustainable environmental practices in the country.
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