Women Leaders in Village Panchayats

(Nandana) #1
If a woman has made up her mind to do something, she is capable of achieving
immense success. Appalled by the level of corruption, immorality, amorality
and arrogance prevailing in the political and social systems today, I daringly
stood for elections and this is my second tenure in the Panchayat, once as a Block
President and now the second time as the Chairperson District Panchayat. I
strongly believe that it is time for women to enter politics seriously, because
they are not prone to corruption in the way that men are.

Coming from a joint family of twenty members, I received full support from
my husband for further studies and have completed my M.A, and later he
encouraged me to participate in the welfare of the people in my area. I believe
that, ‘god helps those who help themselves.’

I have made a remarkable difference in my area, initiating work by teaching
the less fortunate village women stitching and embroidery, instilling them
with self-confidence and awareness of various issues. Through the medium of
Special Help groups, I integrated BPL members so that eventually they can
rise above the poverty line.

My Mahila Milan Kendra informs women on issues that can help them discuss
and find solutions to problems such as alcohol consumption by men etc.
Every three months, the Zilla Panchayat holds meetings to address past and
new issues, assess the drawbacks and the improvements that have taken place.
I try to ensure that the government funds are being used effectively, and the
benefits of the various government schemes have accrued to the concerned.

My campaign against gender biases is ongoing. I encourage NgOs to take
interest and find solutions to women’s problems and to do so in a sustainable
manner that is reflected by reformed laws and procedures and an improved
human rights situation in their areas. To keep the future economy of the village
in mind, women must make optimum use of natural resources, vegetable and
fruit processing, and add to the economic empowerment of the community.

I work towards improvement in all aspects of human dignity: social, political,
and economical. If the individuals of my area are not satisfied with their station
in life, what impact will it have on the community?

Sarojini Kainthura
Chairperson District
Panchayat
District: Pauri

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