The study of elected women representative’s empowerment in local governance in India

Pages: 511-513
Smita Kulkarni (Department of Psychology, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune)
Sadhana Natu (Department of Psychology, Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Pune, Maharashtra )

All over the world, women have been excluded from gaining political power. The 73rd constitutional amendment in India has allowed women to play a very significant role in local governance. Also the Government of Maharashtra’s decision of 50% reservation for women in local self government in 2011 provided a wide scope for representation of women in rural as well as urban local bodies. The present study tries to find out the diverse psycho-social and political factors contributing to women’s participation in governance. It also explores some of the important psychological aspects (Assertiveness & gender role perception) that help women to function effectively. The study is also aimed at highlighting these women’s contribution to policy making. These factors would help in generating rich insights about the empowerment of this specific group. Some recommendations for training these women will be made on the basis of this study.