Question

The 73rd Constitution Amendment Act was instrumental in empowering women. Discuss this statement with reference to the empowerment of women in rural India.

Answer 1

The Panchayati Raj Act, also known as the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, was a significant piece of Indian legislation that sought to empower rural communities, particularly women, and decentralize power to the local level. In rural parts of the nation, the Act allowed for the creation of Panchayats, or local self-governing bodies.

The Act stipulated that women must hold at least one-third of the Panchayat seats. The empowerment of women in rural India has been greatly aided by this provision. It has given them a forum to express their concerns and take part in the decision-making process. Due to sociocultural barriers, women who were previously excluded from the political process can now actively participate in the Panchayats.

The Act has additionally aided in the advancement of women's education in rural areas. The mandatory middle-school education for women elected to panchayats has incentivized parents to send their daughters to school. Women's literacy rates among rural Indians have increased as a result of this.