Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan: Empowering Women in Local Governance

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched the Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan on March 4, 2025, in New Delhi to strengthen the leadership of Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). The initiative focuses on capacity-building, decision-making skills, and ensuring active participation of women in governance.

Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan: Empowering Women in Local Governance

About the Launch and Objectives:

  • The initiative was launched at a National Workshop for Women Elected Representatives ahead of International Women’s Day 2025.
  • It aims to enhance leadership, governance skills, and decision-making abilities of women in PRIs.
  • More than 4 million elected women representatives in PRIs are expected to benefit from this program.

Key Highlights of the Event:

  • Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized women’s role in strengthening democracy and urged them to assert their leadership.
  • Union Minister Annapurna Devi highlighted the impact of women-led governance in sectors like health, education, and economic development.
  • Union Minister S.P. Singh Baghel addressed the issue of proxy leadership, where male relatives act on behalf of elected women.
  • Union Minister Raksha Nikhil Khadse encouraged women representatives to lead independently and take charge of their responsibilities.
  • The event featured the launch of training modules for women leaders and a Primer on Gender-Based Violence Laws for Panchayat representatives.
  • Women leaders were felicitated for their contributions to rural self-governance, and panel discussions were held on increasing female participation in PRIs.

About Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan:

Objectives of the Initiative:

  • Strengthen women’s leadership in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
  • Enhance decision-making skills and active participation in governance.
  • Provide mentorship and training to ensure effective leadership.
  • Reduce proxy representation, ensuring women exercise real authority.

Significance and Impact

  • First nationwide capacity-building program for Women Elected Representatives (WERs).
  • Encourages gender-sensitive policymaking and inclusive governance.
  • Empowers women to implement health, education, and welfare schemes.
  • Builds on the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, boosting female participation in PRIs.