This book refutes the rising general perception that the gender gap in India is decreasing. The argument is strengthened by calculating the gender gap index at two time periods and providing quantitative information along with information pertaining to numerous case studies. Selecting relevant welfare indicators and focusing on the neglected dimensions of gender equity, Bearing the Brunt: Impact of Rural Distress on Women discusses the gendered impact of rural economic distress with respect to employment, agricultural production, natural resource management and food security. It shows that wom.