Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in Empowering Rural Women

Abstract

This article follows the evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) from the Independence provisions in the 73rd constitutional amendment concerning reservations for women and other vulnerable sections. The goal of the 73rd constitutional amendment of 1993 is to examine and comprehend how the amendment affects women's empowerment. Indeed, women's reservations in PRIs have created enormous opportunities for their empowerment, especially for those who belong to the weakest segments of society. Despite significant progress, women's subordination to men is still a widespread occurrence. India is seeing a sharp increase in violence against women at a period of unparalleled economic prosperity, and the majority of girls are still not afforded equal opportunities in school. The Indian government designated 33% of the seats in Panchayats for women and granted constitutional status to village-level councils, or Panchayati Raj institutions, in one of the most significant moves towards the empowerment of women.