Gender refers to the socially and culturally constructed roles, behaviors, expectations, and identities associated with being male or female in a given society. Unlike sex, which is based on biological differences such as chromosomes, reproductive organs, and hormonal profiles, gender is shaped by social norms, traditions, and power relations. It defines what is considered appropriate behavior, responsibilities, opportunities, and rights for men and women. Gender roles are learned through socialization within the family, peer groups, educational institutions, media, religion, and other social groups. These roles often create unequal power relations, with women frequently placed in subordinate positions, affecting their access to resources, decision-making, education, employment, and health care. Thus, gender is not merely an individual identity but a structural system that organizes social life and significantly influences health outcomes within families and communities. In the context of family health, gender plays a crucial role in determining who receives care, nutrition, rest, and medical attention. In many parts of India, patriarchal norms prioritize men’s health and well-being over women’s. Women are often expected to sacrifice their own needs for the welfare of their husbands, children, and elderly family members. This unequal distribution of resources and responsibilities has serious consequences for women’s physical, mental, and reproductive health. One of the major issues related to women’s health in India is malnutrition and anemia. A significant proportion of Indian women suffer from iron-deficiency anemia due to inadequate dietary intake, repeated pregnancies, and limited access to nutritious food. In many households, women eat