Local Government and Women

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act 1992 has made two important provisions for the involvement of women in decision making and preparation of plan for development. Let us elaborate it. This amendment has made a provision that at least one -third of women would be members and chairpersons of the Panchyats at three levels means at Gram Panchayat level, Panchayat Samiti level and Zilla Panchayat level. These women also include from scheduled caste and scheduled tribe communities. Secondly, Panchayats are also expected to prepare plans for economic development including the 29 subjects listed in the Eleventh Scheduled of the constitution. The rural plan prepared by Zilla Parishads would be forwarded to District Planning Committee for preparing a consolidated plan for the rural and urban areas of the district. Now, this was the mandate given by the constitution for development of entire rural areas including women. Women would only be empowered if various developmental works which are undertaken are bene ting women