The introduction of the chapter discusses the lack of support and equality for women in many parts of the world, highlighting issues such as poor nutrition, health, education, and employment opportunities. Women face significant obstacles, including physical violence, sexual abuse, and discrimination in various sectors of society. The chapter also addresses the legal and social inequalities that women face, such as unequal property rights, contract rights, and freedom of association. These inequalities are exacerbated by cultural and religious practices, leading to a "double day" of both paid work and household responsibilities, which further limits their capabilities and well-being. The chapter then introduces the capabilities approach, a philosophical framework that aims to address these issues by focusing on what people are actually able to do and be. This approach is argued to be more effective than other methods, such as subjective welfarism, in addressing the problems of poverty and development. The capabilities approach is universalist, aiming to provide a basis for constitutional principles that all nations should respect and implement. It emphasizes the importance of treating each person as an end in themselves rather than as a means to an end. The chapter also discusses the role of religion and family in shaping women's lives, particularly in the context of India, where women face unique challenges. It highlights the need for a philosophical approach that is sensitive to cultural and religious contexts while also addressing the specific problems faced by women. The author argues that a universalist feminism, grounded in a universal account of human functions, can effectively address these issues. Finally, the chapter presents two case studies of women in India, Vasanti and Jayamma, to illustrate the practical implications of the capabilities approach. Vasanti, a self-employed woman, has found some economic stability through the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA), while Jayamma, a former brick worker, faces significant economic and social disadvantages due to her gender and caste. These cases highlight the ongoing struggles of women in developing countries and the need for a comprehensive approach to address their unique challenges.The introduction of the chapter discusses the lack of support and equality for women in many parts of the world, highlighting issues such as poor nutrition, health, education, and employment opportunities. Women face significant obstacles, including physical violence, sexual abuse, and discrimination in various sectors of society. The chapter also addresses the legal and social inequalities that women face, such as unequal property rights, contract rights, and freedom of association. These inequalities are exacerbated by cultural and religious practices, leading to a "double day" of both paid work and household responsibilities, which further limits their capabilities and well-being. The chapter then introduces the capabilities approach, a philosophical framework that aims to address these issues by focusing on what people are actually able to do and be. This approach is argued to be more effective than other methods, such as subjective welfarism, in addressing the problems of poverty and development. The capabilities approach is universalist, aiming to provide a basis for constitutional principles that all nations should respect and implement. It emphasizes the importance of treating each person as an end in themselves rather than as a means to an end. The chapter also discusses the role of religion and family in shaping women's lives, particularly in the context of India, where women face unique challenges. It highlights the need for a philosophical approach that is sensitive to cultural and religious contexts while also addressing the specific problems faced by women. The author argues that a universalist feminism, grounded in a universal account of human functions, can effectively address these issues. Finally, the chapter presents two case studies of women in India, Vasanti and Jayamma, to illustrate the practical implications of the capabilities approach. Vasanti, a self-employed woman, has found some economic stability through the Self-Employed Women's Association (SEWA), while Jayamma, a former brick worker, faces significant economic and social disadvantages due to her gender and caste. These cases highlight the ongoing struggles of women in developing countries and the need for a comprehensive approach to address their unique challenges.