The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): On May 3rd, 2024, three remarkable Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) from India will participate in a significant event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This event, titled “Localizing the SDGs: Women in Local Governance in India Lead the Way,” is a collaboration between the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the Permanent Mission of India to the UN, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). It aims to showcase the pivotal role of Indian women in grassroots political leadership and sustainable development.
These EWRs represent the epitome of women’s empowerment in rural India. They have been instrumental in driving positive change at the grassroots level, where they serve as elected members of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). India boasts 1.4 million such women leaders, constituting 46% of all elected representatives in PRIs.
The event will focus on showcasing India’s pioneering model of empowering EWRs to lead the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will highlight their significant contributions to gender equality, poverty alleviation, and inclusive development at the grassroots level. Through panel discussions and personal anecdotes, these women will share their impactful journey and experiences in local self-governance.
India has implemented various initiatives to empower women in leadership roles effectively. Notable among these is the Leadership and Management Development Programme, which provides quality training to elected representatives and functionaries of PRIs. This program aims to enhance their leadership skills and promote gender equality in local governance.
1. Supriya Das Datta – As Sabhadhipati of Sepahijala Zilla Parishad, Tripura, Supriya has championed women’s involvement in public decision-making processes. She holds a Diploma in Pharmacy and actively addresses gender stereotypes in her community.
2. Kunuku Hema Kumari – Serving as Sarpanch of Pekeru Gram Panchayat, Andhra Pradesh, Hema Kumari is dedicated to raising awareness about government schemes and programs. With a Master’s Degree in Technology, she focuses on delivering public services to vulnerable groups.
3. Neeru Yadav – Neeru, the Sarpanch of Lambi Aheer Gram Panchayat, Rajasthan, leads initiatives to combat gender stereotypes and promote girls’ education. She holds a Master’s Degree in Mathematics and Education and is pursuing her Ph.D.
The event will also feature remarks from prominent figures, including Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, Permanent Representative of India to the UN, and Mr. Pio Smith, the UNFPA Asia Pacific Regional Director. These leaders will recognize the exemplary efforts of the EWRs and advocate for greater global support for India’s pioneering model of women’s empowerment in local governance.
India’s commitment to gender equality and women-led development is evident through its proactive initiatives and groundbreaking successes at the grassroots level. The participation of these EWRs at the UN event symbolizes India’s dedication to empowering women as catalysts for sustainable development and social change.
This event serves as a testament to India’s leadership in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment on the global stage, reaffirming its position as a trailblazer in inclusive and sustainable development.