Introduction
Engendering governance means including gender perspectives in all aspects of governance. In simple words, it means making sure that the voices, needs, and rights of both women and men are considered while making decisions, creating policies, and implementing programs. Gender equality should not only be a topic of discussion but also a part of the government’s planning and actions. This helps in creating a fair and inclusive society for everyone.
What is Engendering Governance?
Engendering governance involves applying a gender lens to the functioning of government institutions, laws, policies, and development programs. It ensures that both women and men have equal participation and benefits from governance systems.
Key Points:
- Ensures gender equality in decision-making processes.
- Includes women’s voices in policy formulation and implementation.
- Promotes women’s leadership at local, state, and national levels.
- Monitors the impact of governance on both men and women.
Simple Example:
If a village council (Panchayat) builds a water tank without considering how far women walk to fetch water, the water tank may not help them. Engendering governance would ensure women are involved in the decision, so the water tank is built in a location that benefits them the most.
Need for Engendering Governance
There are several reasons why it is important to engender governance in a country like India:
1. Gender Inequality
In many areas, women still face discrimination in education, health, jobs, and property rights. Engendering governance helps to reduce these gaps.
2. Inclusive Development
Development that includes women’s needs and participation benefits the whole society. It leads to better use of resources, stronger families, and more peaceful communities.
3. Women as Decision Makers
When women are part of decision-making bodies, they bring new ideas, focus on issues like health, education, and safety, and ensure more balanced policies.
4. Democratic Values
True democracy means everyone has a voice. Engendering governance ensures that half the population — women — are not left behind.
Initiatives for Engendering Governance in India
India has taken many steps to include gender perspectives in governance:
1. 33% Reservation for Women in Panchayati Raj
Women are given one-third of the seats in local government bodies (Panchayats). This has empowered lakhs of women across the country to become leaders and bring positive changes in villages.
2. Gender Budgeting
Many ministries now create gender budgets — this means they plan and spend money keeping women’s needs in mind. For example, extra funds may be given for girls’ education or women’s health.
3. National Policy for Women
This policy provides a clear framework to promote women’s participation in economic, political, and social development.
4. Women’s Commissions
The National Commission for Women and State Commissions work to protect women’s rights and ensure their concerns are addressed by the government.
5. Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Through SHGs, lakhs of rural women are now engaged in saving money, running small businesses, and participating in local governance discussions.
Challenges
- Social and cultural barriers still prevent women from taking leadership roles.
- Many women leaders are not given real power, and decisions are made by male family members.
- Lack of education and awareness limits women’s ability to participate effectively.
Conclusion
Engendering governance is essential for building a fair, equal, and developed society. It ensures that both women and men benefit from government actions and policies. While India has taken strong steps in this direction, more efforts are needed to truly empower women at all levels of governance. With the right support, training, and awareness, women can become powerful agents of change in society.