Source: The Hindu
General Studies-2; Topic: Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
Introduction
- The concept of ‘women-led development’ was a key theme during India’s presidency of the G20.
- Vice President of India, also Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, introduced significant reforms aimed at enhancing the role of women in India’s legislative processes.
- A major milestone in this direction was the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill), 2023, which has marked a new era for gender parity in governance.
Background:
- Historically, the role of women in governance was often limited to symbolic positions. However, the approach of women-led development positions women as active participants in planning, decision-making, and leadership roles, not just beneficiaries.
- This paradigm shift aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5.5 of the UN, which calls for women’s full participation in leadership across all sectors.
- The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration further highlighted the multiplier effect that investing in women’s leadership can have on sustainable development.
Key Initiatives in the Rajya Sabha:
Several transformative initiatives were introduced in the Rajya Sabha to promote gender parity:
- Reconstitution of the Vice-Chairperson Panel:
- In a historic move, the panel was reconstituted to include only women members, symbolizing their commanding presence during pivotal moments in legislative proceedings.
- 50% Representation in Key Roles:
- Four women members were nominated to constitute 50% of the panel of vice-chairpersons, marking a significant shift toward gender parity.
- Training Women Officers:
- All gazetted women officers were trained to take on House-related duties, traditionally dominated by men. This was aimed at breaking gender stereotypes.
- Appointment of Women Officials:
- Women were appointed in key positions such as chamber attendants and in critical roles like human resources, legislative section, and capacity-building divisions.
Achievements and Milestones:
- S. Phangnon Konyak became the first woman from Nagaland to preside over the Rajya Sabha, marking a major milestone for women’s leadership.
- P.T. Usha, a renowned athlete, made history as the first nominated MP to become Vice Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.
- Women officers have been appointed in pivotal positions within the Secretariat, including leading roles in capacity building and legislative procedures.
- A woman officer was appointed as the master trainer for the iGOT-Karmayogi Bharat program, reflecting women’s growing influence in administrative roles.
Challenges and Opportunities:
While these achievements are significant, there are several challenges that need to be addressed:
- Breaking Stereotypes:
- Despite progress, there are still stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated roles within the Secretariat. Continuous efforts are needed to break these barriers.
- Safe Commutation:
- Ensuring safe and convenient commutation for women officers, especially during late working hours, remains a challenge.
Government Schemes Supporting Women’s Empowerment:
- Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill), 2023:
- This bill mandates 33% reservation for women in legislative bodies, aiming to significantly enhance their participation in politics.
- iGOT-Karmayogi Bharat Program:
- A capacity-building initiative focused on equipping government officials, including women, with the necessary skills for effective governance.
- ‘Vahan’ App:
- Aimed at ensuring safe commutation for women officers during late hours, this initiative is crucial for promoting women’s safety in workplace environments.
- Internship Program for Miranda House Students:
- An internship program to engage young women in learning parliamentary procedures, further promoting the next generation of women leaders.
International Best Practices
- Rwanda has mandated gender quotas through its Constitution, requiring at least 30% of the seats in both chambers of Parliament to be held by women. Currently, Rwanda’s lower house has over 60% female representation, the highest in the world.
- Countries like Sweden, Norway, and Finland have adopted voluntary gender quotas for political parties, leading to a balanced representation of women in their parliaments.
- Canada: The Equal Voice Initiative trains women candidates for political office, providing mentorship and leadership development.
- The EU has made strides in gender representation through policies that promote women’s leadership roles.
Way Forward:
- Increase Representation:
- Continue efforts to increase women’s representation in leadership roles within the Rajya Sabha and its Secretariat.
- Extend Initiatives:
- The successful implementation of women-led development initiatives in the Rajya Sabha should be expanded to other legislative bodies across India.
- Gender Sensitization:
- Regular gender sensitization workshops should be conducted to maintain a culture of equality and gender parity in the workplace.
- Showcasing Talents:
- Creating platforms for women to showcase their talents through events like Women’s Day celebrations is crucial for enhancing visibility and confidence among women leaders.
Conclusion:
- Women’s empowerment in Indian legislature is moving from rhetoric to reality, with transformative policies and initiatives driving gender parity in governance. These efforts, coupled with a global focus on women-led development, are steering India toward a future where women play a pivotal role in shaping national policy and progress.
Practice Question:
What are the major challenges that women face in traditionally male-dominated legislative and administrative roles in India? Suggest strategies for overcoming these challenges while promoting gender balance in parliamentary procedures. (250 Words)
