New Delhi, March 4: Union Ministers underscored the pivotal role of women's empowerment in achieving a developed and self-reliant India on Tuesday, emphasizing the need for confidence-building and capacity enhancement of women representatives in local governance.
Speaking at the launch of the Sashakt Panchayat Netri Abhiyan, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh highlighted women's indispensable contribution to governance, economic prosperity, and social progress.
"Democracy begins at the grassroots level, from the Panchayats," Singh stated, addressing an audience comprising elected women representatives. "You've emerged victorious from there. The smaller the election, the greater the challenge."
He further emphasized the importance of empowering women representatives, stating, "Women need confidence and capacity-building initiatives. When their confidence grows, just as women successfully manage their families, they will effectively lead Panchayats."
About 'Sashakt Panchayat Netri Abhiyan'
The Sashakt Panchayat Netri Abhiyan is a targeted initiative designed to strengthen capacity-building measures for women elected representatives in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The program seeks to sharpen leadership skills, improve decision-making abilities, and reinforce women's participation in grassroots governance.Singh underlined that the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) hinges on women's empowerment. Citing the example of Bihar, he noted, "Bihar has provided 50 per cent reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions. Today, over 54 per cent of women there win elections beyond reserved seats."
He also pointed out that more than 20 states across India now provide 50 per cent reservation for women in local bodies. Highlighting the recent appointment of Rekha Gupta as Delhi's Chief Minister, Singh remarked that such developments signal women's potential to lead states and even the nation.
Women's Leadership Essential for India's Development
Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi reinforced the idea that women's empowerment transcends equality, describing it as crucial for India's economic, social, and administrative growth."When women lead, they naturally invest more in health, education, and economic stability, creating positive outcomes," Devi stated. She asserted that women-led development is not merely a government slogan but a fundamental ideology. "We are committed to advancing women in every field. Women-led development is no longer an option; it is essential for India's growth."
Devi urged stakeholders to develop comprehensive women's development models and emphasized connecting policy frameworks to grassroots implementation. "Focus on women's education. Without women-led development, India's progress is impossible," she added.
From Panchayats to National Politics: A Personal Story
Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse shared her inspiring journey in politics, which began at age 20 as a Gram Panchayat member."Often, women representatives are confined to nominal roles, with family members taking charge behind the scenes. This practice must stop," Khadse asserted. "Reservations have provided an opportunity to show that we are not limited to villages but can lead at the national level."
Expressing optimism, Khadse affirmed, "I firmly believe that the women of this country will lead India forward."
Addressing Patriarchal Challenges in Leadership
Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S. P. Singh Baghel, highlighted persistent patriarchal barriers women face in elected positions."In Bihar, it's 'Mukhiya Pati'; in Uttar Pradesh, it's 'Pradhan Pati'; and in Madhya Pradesh, 'Sarpanch Pati.' Male family members often undermine women's authority," Baghel explained.
He emphasized the transformative potential of their five-year term in leadership roles, noting, "During this tenure, women gain confidence, overcome fear of public speaking, and participate actively in public functions. Through this, the veil of patriarchy gradually recedes."