Introduction
Rural women in India face multiple challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, social inequality, and limited access to healthcare and livelihood opportunities. To empower them, the government has introduced various policies, programmes, and legislations aimed at improving their status and participation in social and economic development.
Key Policies for Rural Women
1. National Policy for Empowerment of Women (2001)
This policy provides a comprehensive framework for women’s advancement in education, health, economy, and decision-making. It specifically addresses rural women by focusing on poverty alleviation and access to resources.
2. Draft National Policy on Women 2016
This draft policy aims to create an enabling environment for women through legal reforms, education, skill development, and access to credit.
Major Programmes for Rural Women
1. Self Help Group (SHG) – Bank Linkage Programme
Promoted under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), this programme empowers rural women by organizing them into SHGs for savings, credit access, and skill training.
2. Swa-Shakti Project
Aimed at building institutions for women’s empowerment and promoting income-generating activities through microcredit and capacity building.
3. Support to Training and Employment Programme for Women (STEP)
Provides training to women in traditional and non-traditional sectors to enhance their employability and entrepreneurship skills.
4. Mahila Shakti Kendra
These centers operate at the block level to provide information and support to women regarding government schemes, legal rights, and health services.
5. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
Promotes the survival, protection, and education of the girl child, with strong focus on rural areas facing gender discrimination.
6. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
Provides free LPG connections to women from BPL households, reducing indoor pollution and health risks.
Legislations Benefitting Rural Women
1. Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005
Gives equal inheritance rights to daughters in ancestral property, ensuring rural women’s access to land and assets.
2. Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005
Safeguards women from abuse within the family and provides legal support, which is significant for rural households where domestic violence is often unreported.
3. Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (Amended in 2017)
Ensures job security and maternity benefits for women working in both organized and informal sectors.
4. Panchayati Raj Act (73rd Amendment)
Provides for one-third reservation for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions, ensuring rural women’s participation in local governance and decision-making.
Conclusion
The scope of policies, programmes, and legislations for rural women in India is vast and evolving. While many schemes aim at economic empowerment, legal provisions are equally important for ensuring rights and protection. Effective implementation and awareness are key to translating these initiatives into real empowerment for rural women.