The correct answer is Both A and B are correct. Key Points • Statement A: The Gender Development Index (GDI) is indeed a composite index that takes into account health, education, empowerment, and labour market participation. It measures gender equality by evaluating disparities in these critical areas between men and women. Hence, statement A is correct. • Statement B: When inequality in gender is considered for the above-mentioned factors (health, education, empowerment, and labour market participation), it does adversely impact the overall Human Development Index (HDI). The HDI reflects a nation’s overall development, and gender disparities hinder equitable progress. Hence, statement B is correct. • The Gender Development Index is closely related to HDI because it highlights the gaps in human development achievements between men and women. As gender inequality rises, HDI is negatively impacted, showcasing reduced opportunities and access for women compared to men. This demonstrates the direct link between GDI and HDI. Therefore, both statements are correct. Additional Information • Gender Development Index (GDI): • The GDI measures the gender-based differences in achievements across three dimensions of HDI: health (life expectancy), education (mean and expected years of schooling), and income (per capita income). • A higher GDI value indicates greater equality between men and women, while a lower value points to significant disparities. • Example: Nations with higher GDI values, such as Norway and Sweden, exhibit better gender equality and overall human development. • Human Development Index (HDI): • The HDI is a composite index that measures average achievement in three basic dimensions of human development: health (life expectancy), education, and standard of living (income). • Gender inequality negatively impacts HDI as it reduces the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. • For example, countries with low gender inequality, such as Iceland, typically rank higher in HDI compared to nations with significant gender disparities. • Impact of Gender Inequality on HDI: • Gender inequality results in unequal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, directly affecting HDI rankings. It also limits the potential contribution of women to national development. • Policies aimed at improving gender equality, such as increasing female participation in the workforce, enhancing women’s access to education, and ensuring gender-balanced healthcare, have proven to improve HDI. Important Points • Key Reports and Indices: • The UNDP publishes the Human Development Report, which includes both HDI and GDI as critical indicators of development. • The Gender Inequality Index (GII) is another measure used by UNDP to assess gender disparities. It focuses on reproductive health, empowerment, and labour market participation. • Examples of Policies to Improve Gender Development: • Governments worldwide are implementing policies to promote gender equality, such as women empowerment programs, affirmative action, and universal access to education for girls. • In India, initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao aim to reduce gender disparities in education and health. • Globally, nations like Norway and Sweden are examples of countries achieving high GDI scores due to their focus on gender-balanced policies.