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Volume 13 | Issue 4 | Year 2026 | Article Id. IJHSS-V13I4P109 | DOI : https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V13I4P109

A Qualitative Systematic Review of Women-Centric Schemes In India Using PRISMA Checklist

Elina Mehra

Received Revised Accepted Published
10 Jun 2026 15 Jul 2026 04 Aug 2026 17 Aug 2026

Citation :

Elina Mehra, "A Qualitative Systematic Review of Women-Centric Schemes In India Using PRISMA Checklist," International Journal of Humanities and Social Science, vol. 13, no. 4, pp. 80-91, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942703/IJHSS-V13I4P109

Abstract

This study compares and analyzes the effectiveness of the women-centric schemes for addressing gender inequality and inclusive socio-economic development in India, especially in marginalized communities. Despite major additions to the policy framework, there are clear policy disconnects in the extent to which they achieve empowerment. This review aims to review historical and legislative frameworks, to analyse the effectiveness of the policies in different regions and social groups, and to determine the structural, socio-cultural and governance challenges in reaching the impact. A qualitative systematic review approach is used to adhere to the PRISMA methodology. After screening, a total of 152 studies were identified from the Scopus database and analysed by thematic synthesis, which were further categorised into non-marginalised and special marginalised groups, such as transgender, Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and sex workers. The findings show that, although legal and policy development have made significant strides, there is a persistent mismatch between legal and policy level development and implementation. While employment, financial inclusion, and social empowerment have improved, the results are not uniform, owing to socio-cultural barriers like caste discrimination, administrative constraints and regional disparities. The benefits of the schemes remain disproportionately denied to marginal groups. The study shows that legal framework, institutional capacities, and social norms play a significant role in shaping women’s empowerment in India. It highlights the importance of context-specific, intersectional policy design and increased governance mechanisms.

Keywords

Marginalised Women, Forced Marriages, Women’s Empowerment, Gender Inequality, Government Schemes.

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