Empowering Women PRIs Leaders: Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan & Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched two key initiatives — Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan and Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) — to promote gender-sensitive governance and empower Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).

Key Highlights

Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan

• A nationwide capacity-building initiative for Women Elected Representatives (WERs) of PRIs.
• Objective: Strengthen leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and active participation in rural governance.
• Focuses on eliminating the “Mukhiya Pati” or “Sarpanch Pati” culture, ensuring that WERs exercise their authority independently.

Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat (MWFGP)

• Aims to establish at least one Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat in each district.
• Focus on gender-sensitive and girl-friendly governance practices.

Law Addressing Gender-Based Violence Primer

• A comprehensive guide on laws addressing gender-based violence and harmful practices for panchayat representatives.

Current Status of Women Participation in PRIs

• Over 1.4 million women elected in PRIs.
• States like Bihar have achieved 50% representation, surpassing the 33% reservation quota.