Socio-Economic Status of Female Headed Households:(A Case Study of Ashrang V.D.C, Gorkha District)

Abstract

Women are considered to be vital and productive worker in the society.Their access to productive resources remained limited. They have not become empowered to participate in the social development program in a fair way.Further Nepal is patriarchal Hindu kingdom and is among the countries of the world with highest son preference country. Sons are required to perform religious and functional activities after the death of parents. In the contract, Nepalese women are enjoining only supplementary role in the religious function. Women follow husband family name and enjoy only sentimental value for carrying parents. This study was carried out at Ashrang VDC of Gorkha district.Thegeneral objective of the study is to analyze socio-economic condition of femaleheaded households and the specific objects are as follows:  To analyze the social status of female headed households in the study area.  To analyze the economic status of female headed households in the study area.  To analyze the perception of society towards the female headed households in the study area.  To explain the problems of female headed households in the study area. In each of the wards 5 households were purposively sampled. Total 45 households were included in the study. All together 45 households were taken from Brahmin, Chhetri, Magar and so called lower caste. This is the descriptivecum analytical research study. The complete study report has been divided intosix chapters. Generally, female are behind than male. The role of female is not counted even in national gross domestic product (household works). But many studies have found positive change where women are leading. Many Programs managed by female is successfully run. Similarly, in the case of study area it is found that the economic status of female headed households is good. Out of three types(married, separated and widow) first one’s socio-economic status is batter than two others owing to the income source from their husbands from out side employment.Social condition of widows’ households is miserable than separated one. It is concluded from the study that female are capable to fulfill their responsibility towards their family and they are committed and confident to accept the challenges came in the family. On the basis of findings some recommendations have been suggested for the improvement of female headed households in socio-economic aspect and to increase the participation in different development activities.