Status of Slum Dwelling Women (A case study of Pokhara Valley)

Abstract

This study describes the socio-demographic condition and the socio-economic status of women dwelling in the slums of the Pokhara from western Nepal. More specifically, the study explores and analyzes gender position in the household decision-making. The study is based on primary data but secondary data has also been used as per need. Interview schedule and focus group discussion are the key research tools used by the study. Out of the 41 slums in the 18 wards of Pokhara, only three settlements/wards namely Shiva tole from ward 18 has been selected for the study. Sixty ever-married women selected as respondents i.e. 20 from the each settlement. The study show that Gurung and Dalit mostly constitute the slum community of Pokhara valley and most of the slum dwellers are migrants. The study finds unsatisfactory soci-economic condition of the women in slums. They are highly illiteracy and they have no facilities for capacity building. Likewise, they have limited involvement in social organization and decision making process. They have limited economic resources. Violence against these women is the result of their limited voice, non-representation and marginalization. Gender inequalities among the school going children is observed insignificant than in married people.