Homeless Women’s Multifaceted Vulnerabilities in India: A Research Roadmap Delineation

Despite the estimated population of homeless women standing at 0.7 million, research dedicated to understanding women’s homelessness in India remains lacking. This chapter endeavors to contextualize the multifaceted vulnerabilities among homeless women in India and delineate future research directions. By utilizing a systematic literature review methodology, a total of 30 relevant studies were selected and screened to derive key findings. The study findings underscore the complexity of pathways leading to homelessness among women, driven by socioeconomic poverty and gender-based injustices. Homelessness renders women susceptible to sexual violence and myriad livelihood challenges, consequently impinging upon their mental and physical health and well-being. The prevalence of multiple morbidities among this demographic is notable, compounded by negative attitudes toward healthcare utilization and various structural and individual-level barriers. Moreover, a lack of health awareness further impedes their access to essential healthcare services. Elevated sexual and reproductive health risks persist among homeless women, juxtaposed with inadequate access to relevant services, thereby presenting additional hurdles. In conclusion, while research interest in homeless women is expanding, the dearth of studies focusing on sexual and reproductive health underscores the imperative for further inquiry in this domain. Likewise, policy and research attention are warranted to address the multidimensional poverty experienced by homeless women in India and to foster their mental and physical health and well-being, thereby enabling them to live with dignity.