Engendering Local Governance: A Case from Rural Karnataka.

Abstract

Decentralization is the key to the speedy, effective and participatory process of delivery of public services to the needy through development programmes of the Panchayat Raj System. The system was revived in 1994 through the 73rd Amendment of the Indian Constitution introducing the three-tier local self-government at the village, block and district levels. This prescribes reservation of seats for women at all levels and all positions. This has launched a silent revolution in the social fabric of rural, tribal and urban population with women from all castes, religions, classes, ages and literacy levels being elected to Panchayat as members and heads of local bodies.