15th September 2025 (15 Topics)
1
Sep
2
Sep
3
Sep
4
Sep
5
Sep
6
Sep
8
Sep
9
Sep
10
Sep
11
Sep
12
Sep
13
Sep
15
Sep
16
Sep
Pink Tax in India
Context
Gender-based price discrimination in products and services, popularly called the “Pink Tax,” has gained policy and consumer attention after global and domestic studies exposed its economic burden.
Definition
- Pink Tax is not an actual tax or government levy but refers to the gender-based price disparity in which women pay more for similar products or services compared to men.
Global Scenario
- Originated in the U.S. (California, 1994).
- S. studies: Women’s personal care products were 13% costlier, clothing 7-8% costlier, and dry-cleaning women’s shirts 90% more expensive.
- K. analysis: Women’s deodorant was 8.9% costlier, and facial moisturiser 34.28% costlier.
- UN (2017) urged member states to end gender-based pricing discrimination.
Indian Context
- Research by International Finance Students Association (IFSA): 67% of Indians unaware of Pink Tax.
- In 2018, the Union Government exempted sanitary napkins and tampons from GST (earlier taxed at 12%).
- National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) ruling: Companies must adopt fair pricing policies and avoid gender-based discrimination.
- Despite lack of explicit legislation, consumer awareness and advocacy are emerging as corrective forces.
Impact
- Imposes a hidden economic burden, especially as women in India already face a gender pay gap.
- Affects family savings where women are not part of the workforce.
- Undermines gender equality in markets and consumer rights
More Articles
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More