Growth in Women’s leadership in India’s grassroot level legislation: Discussed in UN

New York: Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, put light on the significant progress made in women’s leadership within India’s third tier of governance, Panchayati Raj System. She said. ” India prides itself on a unique system of rural governance known as the Panchayati Raj -an emblem of decentralised power at the grassroots level.”

The side event at India’s #CPD57, she stressed on the transformative impact of women’s empowerment at the grassroots level by mentioning, “Localising the SDGS: Women in Local Governance in India leading their ways.”

“India’s decentralised power structure is comendable and a sterling example of direct democracy that facilitates active participation of all the residents of Panchayat through the Gram Sabha,” Ms. Kamboj highlighted. This structure fosters inclusive decision making processes and local level growth.

Another significant term of gender equality was highlighted, Ms Kamboj noted. “A crucial milestone was achieved with the constitutional amendment in 1992, which mandate that at least one third of all the elected roles in local governance be reserved for women.” This provision was a significant step towards empowering women with equitable representation in decision making bodies at grassroots level.

The elevation of women’s representation to 50 per cent in 21 states within India was celebrated by Ms. Kamboj. This reflect a broader societal shift towards recognising and valuing women’s contribution in governance.

The local planning process within Panchayati Raj is whole aligned with the SDGs, with a primary focus on empowering women. The challenges they faced while in leadership should be resolved with supporting environment, robust capacity building initiatives and collaborative partnerships to advance gender equality.

In her concluding words, she quoted words of Mahatma Gandhi, “As we move forward, let us renew our dedication to fostering women’s leadership in local governance , recognising its transformative power in achieving gender equality and the sustainable development goals.” underscoring the impact of women’s strength.