The Modi government is actively working to ensure that every class participates in development plans, with a particular emphasis on empowering women. To achieve this goal, the government has mandated the establishment of Women’s Sabhas and Children’s Sabhas prior to formulating Gram Panchayat Development Plans. The initiative aims for at least one Gram Panchayat in each district to become a women-friendly panchayat.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has assigned this target to all states and Union Territories. To outline the necessary steps for achieving this, a national workshop will be held in Pune from November 4 to 6, bringing together panchayat officials from across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently advocated for women-led development, emphasizing the need for women’s involvement in development initiatives. However, at the grassroots level, many women still face barriers to active participation, allowing practices like Pradhan Pati or Sarpanch Pati to persist. The government aims to eradicate these practices.
To create a safe and supportive environment for women, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj has decided to designate at least one Gram Panchayat in every district as women-friendly, showcasing it as a model for others to follow. These women-friendly panchayats align with nine of the identified goals for sustainable development.
Ministry officials have instructed all states and Union Territories to nominate representatives from State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Institutes, State Panchayat Resource Centers, and Panchayat Raj Training Institutes for training on establishing women-friendly Gram Panchayats.
These representatives will receive training at the Yashwantrao Chavan Academy of Development Administration in Pune, where they will become master trainers. They will then train other panchayat representatives and spearhead the development of model women-friendly Gram Panchayats. Once these panchayats are successfully established, the government aims to enhance women’s empowerment by replicating these practices in other areas.
Key Features of the Ideal Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat:
- Ensure all girls attend school and college.
- Equip women and girls with essential skills for employment and life.
- Provide comprehensive health information and access to health services for women.
- Foster greater participation of women and girls in Gram Sabhas.
- Promote awareness of women’s rights within the community.
- Ensure that Gram Panchayat officials and elected representatives understand gender-related laws.
- Encourage Panchayat Samitis to proactively combat child marriage and gender discrimination, including gender-based violence.