ABSTRACT
The pointer turns towards a cultural construct and a negative mindset of the people. The share of women workforce in the organized sector has increased marginally but more than three-fourths are found working in the agriculture sector and 66% of marginal workers are women in Odisha. Talking of child marriages in Odisha, we find 21.3% of girls of 20-24 age group had married before they attained 18 years and 10% of 15-19 years of girls had child marriage. In 27 districts of Odisha, there is low incidence of underage marriage which is less than 10%. The findings help to corroborate the fact of the deplorable state of women in the EAG states and specifically in the state of Odisha. The Odisha state policy for girls and women 2014 has the mission which states about creating an enabling environment for girls and women that promotes equal opportunities, eliminates discrimination, ensures holistic development and empowerment and enhances capacities.
