Gender Discrimination in Child Schooling: Why do we observe it?

Gender differences in child schooling are widely observed in developing countries. Previous studies on this issue have not specifically analysed whether there is any intra-household gender difference in the allocation of schooling resources. This paper uses two separate econometric models, a sample selection model and a household fixed effects model to examine gender disparities in child schooling in India. First using cross sectional sample selection model, it examines the gender disparity in child schooling. Second, using household fixed effects model, it identifies if this gender disparity is a manifestation of the intra-household resource allocation favouring the male child. The paper finds very strong evidence of gender-bias in the overall schooling outcomes yet it uncovers no significant gender discrimination in the intra-household allocation of schooling resources favouring the male child, once the child is enrolled in a school.