Abstract Gender equality in the education sector is a key indicator of social development and social justice. Female primary teachers working in Zilha Parishad schools play a crucial role in shaping children’s values and future citizenship, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. However, despite constitutional guarantees and policy support, female teachers continue to face several gender-based challenges at the workplace as well as at home. This paper examines gender-based challenges experienced by female primary teachers in Zilha Parishad schools of Kolhapur District from a social work perspective. The study focuses on issues such as work–life balance, workplace discrimination, decision-making opportunities, professional growth, and social expectations. The paper is based on secondary data and insights drawn from the researcher’s PhD synopsis. The study highlights the need for gender-sensitive school administration, supportive governance mechanisms, and social work interventions to promote equality, dignity, and empowerment of female teachers.