Women’s Health in Northeast India: A Study of the Challenges in Promoting Gender Equity and Well-being in Assam

Abstract

Women's health in Northeast India faces myriad issues intricately rooted in various sociocultural factors, limited access to healthcare, and economic disparities among the population. This paper aims to provide an in-depth examination of the health challenges that women in this region at the periphery of the Indian nation-state encounter on a consistent basis. Through an analysis of existing literature, surveys, and interviews with healthcare professionals, this study is an attempt to shed light on the complexities of women's health in Northeast India, particularly in Assam, emphasizing the need for a multi-dimensional approach to address these issues. While significant progress has been made in recent years in overcoming the challenges, the paper explores the key aspects of reproductive health, nutrition, access to (adequate) healthcare, and the influence of sociocultural factors on women’s health. The paper also discusses ongoing initiatives and potential solutions to improve women's health in Assam, aiming to promote gender equity and overall well-being. The findings presented in this research would help policymakers as well as healthcare providers in developing more effective strategies to improve women's health in this region.