Women in Grassroots Governance: A Study of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in Kashmir’s PRIs

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of India has been a transformative step in empowering local self-governments, known as Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and strengthening democratic governance at the grassroots level. A landmark feature of this amendment is the mandatory reservation of one-third of the electoral seats in PRIs for women, including positions of leadership such as sarpanches. This constitutional mandate has significantly boosted women’s participation in rural governance and created opportunities for them to contribute to local decision-making processes. India now stands out globally, with over 1.45 million women actively participating in shaping policies and addressing issues at the local level.

Women leaders in PRIs serve as crucial agents of change, linking grassroots governance with broader goals of sustainable development and gender equality. They play a pivotal role in addressing community needs, improving service delivery, and driving initiatives that promote social welfare. However, despite these contributions, women’s roles in local governance are often undervalued, and their leadership potential remains underutilized due to societal norms, patriarchal structures, and inadequate capacity-building support. 

This paper explores the journey of women’s representation in rural self-governance in Kashmir examining the historical and legislative developments that have paved the way for their inclusion. It highlights significant milestones, such as increased awareness about gender equality and enhanced political participation of women, while also addressing persistent challenges, including social resistance, limited access to education, and insufficient training programs for elected women representatives.