Empowering Rural India: Launch of Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats Initiative


Introduction In a significant step towards gender-sensitive governance at the grassroots level, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj is set to launch the Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) initiative on March 5, 2025, at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. This initiative, launched as part of International Women's Day 2025 celebrations, aims to ensure safety, inclusivity, and gender equality in Gram Panchayats across the country.

Objective of the Initiative The primary goal of the initiative is to establish at least one Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat in each district, serving as a model for gender-sensitive governance practices. These Gram Panchayats will align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of creating safe, inclusive, and socially just villages, contributing to the larger objective of a Viksit Bharat through Viksit Panchayats.



Key Highlights of the National Convention

  1. Participation of Key Dignitaries & Stakeholders

    • Union Minister of State SP Singh Baghel (Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying).
    • Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare).
    • Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
    • Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
    • Representatives from State Institutes of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (SIRD&PRs).
    • International organizations like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

  2. Launch of Key Initiatives

    • Virtual Inauguration of Training Programs: Training sessions for elected representatives and officials from identified Gram Panchayats will be launched.
    • Launch of a Monitoring Dashboard: A digital platform to track the progress of Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats.
    • Presentations on Gender-Sensitive Panchayats: Showcasing best practices and success stories from across India.
    • Screening of Informational Videos: Highlighting successful women-friendly initiatives in Panchayats nationwide.

  3. Mahila Gram Sabhas on March 8

    • Following the convention, nationwide Mahila Gram Sabhas will be organized to mark International Women's Day, signifying the grassroots-level launch of the MWFGP initiative.

Why Was Panchayati Raj Introduced in India? The Panchayati Raj System was introduced in India on April 24, 1993, under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act to strengthen local self-governance. The core objectives include:

  • Decentralization of Power: Bringing governance closer to people by empowering local bodies.
  • Participatory Democracy: Encouraging community involvement in decision-making.
  • Rural Development: Addressing local infrastructure, education, and healthcare needs.
  • Efficient Governance: Ensuring quick and effective implementation of government schemes.

Advantages of the Panchayati Raj System

  1. Empowerment of Rural Population: People have direct participation in local governance.
  2. Improved Decision-Making: Faster decision-making as local issues are handled at the village level.
  3. Better Implementation of Schemes: Government programs are executed more effectively by people who understand the local needs.
  4. Boost to Rural Economy: Encourages rural entrepreneurship and development initiatives.
  5. Enhanced Women’s Participation: With 33% reservation for women, it has opened doors for women’s leadership in governance.

Women’s Role in Society & the Need for Leadership Development Women play a crucial role in shaping society, contributing to education, health, economy, and social reforms. Some key aspects include:

  1. Women as Community Leaders: Women’s participation in Gram Panchayats leads to more inclusive governance.
  2. Empowering Rural Women: MWFGPs aim to ensure safety, better healthcare, and education for women and girls.
  3. Enhancing Economic Participation: Encouraging women to take up entrepreneurship and self-help groups.
  4. Addressing Gender-Based Violence: Creating policies and environments that provide better protection and support for women.

Conclusion The Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats Initiative marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards gender-sensitive rural governance. By empowering women at the grassroots level, this initiative aligns with the vision of a self-reliant and inclusive India. The successful implementation of MWFGPs will transform rural governance, ensuring that every Gram Panchayat becomes a beacon of gender equality, safety, and progress.

Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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