Demographic Profile and Socio-Economic Characteristics of Rural Women in Jammu and Kashmir: Evidence from Anantnag and Baramulla Districts

Abstract

Understanding the demographic and socio-economic profile of rural women is essential for designing gender-responsive rural development policies. This study presents a comprehensive demographic analysis of 471 rural respondents from the districts of Anantnag and Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir. Using primary survey data, the paper examines age structure, marital status, educational attainment, occupational distribution, income levels, and residential characteristics. The findings reveal moderate educational attainment but weak labour market integration, heavy concentration in unpaid and informal employment, and limited independent income. Despite demographic improvements, structural gender disparities persist in economic participation and decision-making roles. The study highlights the disconnect between human capital formation and economic empowerment in rural settings and underscores the need for targeted interventions focusing on income autonomy, skill diversification, and institutional participation. The paper contributes district-level micro evidence from a conflict-sensitive rural economy where demographic transitions have not translated proportionately into socio-economic agency.