Indian women collectively hold around 24,000 tons of gold, accounting for 11 per cent of the world's total gold reserves, according to a World Gold Council report. This gold holds immense cultural and traditional value in India, particularly among women, and plays a crucial role in the country's economy, covering nearly 40 per cent of its GDP. South India, particularly Tamil Nadu (28 per cent), contributes significantly to this gold ownership, with women holding about 40 per cent of India's total gold reserves.
Gold is a symbol of wealth and prosperity in India which is deeply rooted in culture and holds significant importance for women. Indian women's collective holding of the world's total gold, surpasses the top 5 countries including the United States with 8,000 tons of gold, Germany with 3,300 tons, Italy with 2.450 tons, France with 2,400 tons, and Russia with 1,900 tons.
India's gold holding is increasing annually, with women holding 21,000 tons in 2020-21 compared to 24,000 tons in 2024. Indian laws allow married women to hold up to 500 grams of gold without paying taxes, while unmarried women have a limit of 250 grams, and men can only hold 100 grams of gold tax-free.
