Couples and breadwinning in low-income dual-earner households in India

Abstract

This study delves into gender and money among low income households in India. It analyses to what extent the incorporation of women into the labour market and their consequent economic contribution to family income affects couple's relationships. A fairly representative sample of low income couples with at least ten years of marriage and at least two children was chosen. It brings out how it is the husband's authority that is always in the forefront. Half or more than half of the household income is contributed by the earnings of the wife in 62% of the cases. Employment of women in no way leads to their empowerment among the Indian economically backward classes. Various aspects of household financial management have been investigated.