Role of 73^rd constitution amendment in women participation in rural self government (Special references in Panchayti Raj Institutions)

The progress and development of a Nation is judged from the socio economic status of its population especially of the weaker section of the society suffering from poverty, disease and unemployment and so on. As well as backward groups like women, children, STs and SCs. For their development governments provided many facilities through the various programs and policies. Reservation of women in Pnchayti Raj Institutions enables women to take part in public life, interact with different sections of rural population, development personnel and higher level leaders without the consideration of traditional barriers. The 73^rd Constitution Amendment is a historic step in enhancing the participation of women in politics. No doubt it has brought about women empowerment in villages, but it still suffers from the flaws emanating from our patriarchal mindset. Panchayat helps to change the shift from male dominating society to environment where women also getting their rights but it lead many problems also. The principle of gender equality is enshrined in the Indian Constitution-in its Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties and Directive Principles of State Policy. The Constitution not only guarantees equality to women, but also empowers the State to adopt measures of positive discrimination in favor of women to bring forth the equality long deprived.