All are cordially invited to the Econ-Talk "Can Affirmative Action influence Subject Choice amongst Girls? Evidence from India" by Ritika Gupta  (University of Virginia, USA) on Wednesday, Nov 17, at 6.30PM.

Title: Can Affirmative Action influence Subject Choice amongst Girls? Evidence from India 

Abstract: There is a large under-representation of women in STEM careers associated with higher labor market returns. The gender gap is even more stark in a context where societal biases are prevalent and women role models are lacking. This paper investigates a large affirmative action policy implemented in the most elite institute in India that ensures additional seats specific for women in undergraduate STEM courses. Using nationally representative dataset, I find a statistically significant increase in the probability of studying science courses after Grade 10th amongst girls located in districts closer to these institutes after the announcement of the policy. I do not find any effect on the subject choice of boys in the same districts.

Date: Nov 17, 2021 (Wednesday); Time: 6:30-8:00PM

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