GENDER, ECONOMY, AND EMPOWERMENT: TRACING AMBEDKAR'S FEMINIST ECONOMIC VIEWS

Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s impact as a social reformer and economist encompasses a profound yet frequently ignored dedication to gender equality and Female economic autonomy. This research paper investigates Ambedkar’s economic philosophies through a feminist perspective, emphasizing his support for women's education, labor rights, equal pay, and involvement in public affairs. As the first Indian leader to advocate for equal civil and economic rights for women within the Constitution and during his tenure as Labour Minister in British India, Ambedkar established the groundwork for feminist economic policies that were progressive for his era. This study critically analyzes his contributions through a gender-focused economic lens, examining significant reforms such as the Hindu Code Bill and provisions for maternity benefits and workplace dignity. By linking his vision to contemporary gender-disaggregated economic data—like labor force participation rates, wage disparities, and access to credit—the paper underscores the lasting importance of Ambedkar's feminist ideals. The results indicate that his Scheme provides a transformative model for eradicating gender-based biases within India’s development strategy and Legislative drafting