Women Leaders in Village Panchayats

I come from a poor Kunabi family in Burondi Village of Dapoli Block. During

my childhood, I experienced many adversities. I lost my father when I still a

young girl, but because I was the eldest in my family, I had to take on the major

responsibility of the family. I had to discontinue my education after Class x. I

took a job and supported my family and younger siblings’ education. Because

of this work experience, I became responsible and mature at a very young

age. After eight years, I was married and came of live in Valote. My husband

works as an assistant Librarian in Savitribai Phule College, Mandanagad.

I live in a big family with my mother and father in law, brother in law and

two children.

Life was moving at a fast speed, and one day I had an option unlike any

other: an offer to contest the elections. I was surprised, but not too excited

about it. Finally, my family’s support encouraged me to contest elections.

Another woman from the same Ward, belonging to the same category, filed

her nomination as well. Both the groups did a lot of campaigning until the

final day. It was tough but the competition was straight and clean. The day

after the votes were cast, I was declared the winner. I was very happy about

this opportunity. I had gained this chance at leadership without any prior

political or social expertise. I was the first in my family to contest and win the

elections.

The post of President was reserved for the OBC category, so I was unanimously

accepted as the President. I took charge on 22 February 2004.

I was aware that as the first woman President of the village, I was sure to face

lots of scrutiny. I knew that I needed to rise above the expectations of my

village in order to prove that I was a good President. What I did not know was

what to do in order to be a good President!

I had still not heard about Parivartan, and when I was invited to the THP-

Parivartan training, I did not show much willingness to attend. My husband

insisted that I attend. Now I realize that it would have been one of the biggest

mistakes of my life if I had not attended the trainings. As an immediate impact

Smita Sachin Thore
President
Panchayat: Valote
Block: Mandangad
District: Ratnagiri