Topic Details (Notes format)

Provisions for Women in Local Governance

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

The 73rd and 74th Amendments mandate a one-third reservation for women in Panchayats and Municipalities, enabling them to hold leadership roles (Sarpanch, Chairperson). Some states voluntarily raised it to 50%. This empowerment aims to rectify gender imbalances in decision-making and resource allocation. Evidence suggests more focus on health, education, and sanitation when women lead. Nonetheless, “proxy leadership” often occurs, where male relatives exert control. Capacity-building programs (training, awareness) are vital to sustain meaningful participation. Despite challenges, these quotas remain a landmark step in bridging gender gaps at the grassroots, aligning with constitutional goals of inclusive democracy.

Practice Questions

Who is responsible for the selection of the judges of the Supreme Court?

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Indian Constitution?

Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Indian federal system?

Which article of the Indian Constitution deals with the impeachment of the President?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India?

राजनीतिक दलों की स्वतंत्रता किस अनुच्छेद में सुनिश्चित की गई है?

Who was the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

Who appoints the members of the Election Commission of India?

भारतीय संविधान में संशोधन की प्रक्रिया किस आधार पर की जाती है?

राज्यों के बीच शक्तियों का संतुलन किस सिद्धांत पर आधारित है?