Gender Gaps in Healthcare and Nutritional Outcomes: A District-Level Analysis in Haryana

Gender inequality in healthcare and nutrition continues to be a significant issue in India, especially in states with deep-rooted patriarchal values like Haryana. Although the country has experienced substantial economic growth and improved public health infrastructure, gender disparities in accessing healthcare and achieving nutritional health remain evident throughout Haryana. This research examines gender differences in healthcare access and nutritional status across districts in Haryana, using a detailed district-level analysis. The study uses secondary data from sources such as the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21), the Census of India, and official government reports. It assesses gender disparities by analysing key indicators of healthcare access, such as antenatal care and institutional deliveries, as well as nutritional outcomes, including anaemia prevalence and body mass index (BMI). Descriptive and comparative analyses are performed to investigate differences across genders and districts. The findings highlight notable gender disparities in healthcare use and nutritional health, with women generally experiencing worse outcomes than men across various districts. Significant differences between districts suggest that state-level averages hide regional inequalities. Areas with lower female literacy rates, limited healthcare services, and strong socio-cultural norms tend to show greater gender gaps. The study finds that tackling gender inequality in healthcare and nutrition in Haryana needs district-specific, gender-sensitive policies. Enhancing women-focused healthcare services, providing better nutritional support for at-risk groups, and challenging social norms are key to ensuring gender-equitable health outcomes. This research adds empirical evidence to the ongoing discussion on gender disparities in Haryana and provides valuable insights for designing targeted policies.