UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

A gendered perspective in environmental studies emphasises that environmental policies and impacts are experienced differently by women and men due to socially constructed roles and power relations. It calls for analysing resource access, decision making and vulnerability through a gender lens. The stem describes exactly this differentiated approach,so gendered is the correct term.

Option A:
An ecocentric perspective places intrinsic value on ecosystems and non human nature, often downplaying human social distinctions. While important,it does not focus on differences between women and men as stated in the question.

Option B:
A gendered perspective helps reveal how women may bear disproportionate burdens of environmental degradation, such as walking longer distances for water or fuelwood. It also highlights their knowledge and contributions to resource management. This reasoning aligns closely with the stem.

Option C:
A technocratic approach emphasises technical expertise and engineering solutions, sometimes neglecting social and gender dimensions. It is not specifically concerned with unequal roles or vulnerabilities by gender.

Option D:
Neo classical refers to a school of economic thought that assumes rational individuals and competitive markets. Although it can be applied to environmental issues, it does not inherently address gendered differences.

Ecofeminism highlights how the same structures that dominate and exploit nature also marginalise women, arguing that gender justice and ecological sustainability are interconnected.

Option A:
Incorrect; ecofeminism values the knowledge and experiences of women and communities and does not restrict environmental debates to scientists.

Option B:
Incorrect; ecofeminism does not blame women for environmental degradation; instead it critiques power relations that shape resource use.

Option C:
Correct; it captures the core ecofeminist idea of linked oppression of women and nature and the role of women’s empowerment in environmental protection.

Option D:
Incorrect; gender is an important lens because men and women often have different roles, responsibilities and vulnerabilities in relation to the environment.