Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) Study on Gender Norms and Social Practices that Restrict Young Girls’ Economic Empowerment – Report.

Abstract

The state of West Bengal has a population of 9.03 crores of which 19.98 percent live below the poverty line. Adolescents and youths (15-24 years) comprise approximately 20 percent of the total population in West Bengal (48% Girls and 52% Boys of total population). This large cohort of young people represents a great demographic dividend with the potential to contribute to the state’s overall economic growth and development. It has been shown that youths from the bottom 20 percent (poorest) of the households are disproportionally disadvantaged in terms of access to education, employment, and skilling opportunities as compared to youths belonging to upper income households.