Why involving women in financial planning can strengthen Indian households

In many Indian homes, long-term financial decisions are still made by one person — not by intent, but by habit.

“It’s always been this way” is often the explanation.

Yet, day-to-day money management tells a different story. Budgeting, saving, tracking expenses, and planning for family needs are frequently handled by women. The paradox is hard to miss: those managing money daily are often missing from conversations about the future.

That quiet gap matters.

The cost of leaving one voice out

Financial planners point out that households where money decisions are shared tend to plan better. They set clearer goals, avoid common mistakes, and prepare more confidently for children’s education, healthcare needs, and retirement.

When women are actively involved in long-term planning, discussions naturally shift from month-to-month expenses to bigger questions — inflation, retirement readiness, and wealth sustainability.This isn’t about changing who controls finances.
It’s about sharing clarity.

Why timing matters more than ever

Rising education costs, healthcare inflation, and longer life expectancy have made financial planning far more complex than it was a generation ago. Families that delay collective planning often end up reacting to events rather than preparing for them.

A structured, family-wide approach to financial literacy can help households align savings with life goals, estimate realistic retirement needs, and spot products or policies that quietly erode wealth over time.

A growing focus on shared financial awareness

Recognising this shift, The Economic Times is increasingly focusing on financial education that speaks to households, not just individual investors.

As part of this effort, ET is hosting a Financial Freedom Awareness Workshop — a free three-hour live online session designed for families to attend together. Led by financial educator Varun Malhotra, the session covers goal-based planning, inflation-adjusted retirement numbers, tax efficiency, and structuring finances across life stages.

More details are available here: Financial Freedom Awareness Workshop – The Economic Times

Financial freedom is rarely a solo effort

Financial freedom is often discussed as a personal goal. In reality, it is shaped by family decisions — made early, clearly, and together.

As Indian households navigate rising costs and longer financial horizons, inclusive planning may no longer be optional. It may be the difference between reacting to the future and being ready for it.

After all, a secure financial future is rarely built alone.
It is a shared foundation — strengthened when everyone understands the plan.