Empowering Women PRIs Leaders | 07 Mar 2025

Source: PIB 

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched the Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan and Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) to advance gender-sensitive governance at the grassroots level. 

• Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan: It is a nationwide capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening the leadership skills of Women Elected Representatives (WERs) of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). 
  • Objective: Strengthening leadership, decision-making, and active participation of WERs in rural governance. 
• MWFGP: It aims to establish at least one Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat in each district, serving as a beacon for gender-sensitive and girl-friendly governance practices. 
• Addressing Gender Violence: A comprehensive “Primer on Law Addressing Gender Based Violence and Harmful Practices” for panchayat elected representatives was also introduced. 
• Over 1.4 million women elected in PRIs, with states like Bihar (50%) witnessing higher representation beyond quotas (not less than 33%). 
• The ministry also stressed eliminating "Mukhiya Pati" or "Sarpanch Pati" culture, ensuring WERs independently exercise authority.