News: Rising awareness highlights Pink Tax in India, where women often pay more for similar products and services like razors, shampoos, and haircuts, silently eroding household savings and demanding fair pricing.
About Pink Tax
- Pink Tax is not a government levy but a gender-based pricing phenomenon where women’s products or services cost more than men’s equivalents despite similar quality.
- Common examples include personal care items, toys, clothing, dry-cleaning, and salon services.
- The term originated in California in 1994; global studies reveal women pay 7–13% more.
- In India, awareness is low, with 67% never having heard of Pink Tax (IFSA research). The 2018 GST exemption on sanitary napkins was a landmark move against such disparity.
- India’s Case: Women’s shampoos, razors, and haircuts are often priced higher; 2018 GST relief on sanitary products marked progress.
- Economic Impact: With women earning less on average, Pink Tax deepens inequality and strains family savings.
- Legal & Awareness: No specific anti–Pink Tax law exists, but NCDRC mandates fair pricing.
