Women's leadership transforms Bihar's villages, drives grassroots development

Patna, Oct 19 (UNI) Women's leadership in Bihar's panchayats is bringing visible changes to rural communities, with elected women representatives spearheading initiatives in healthcare, livelihood generation, education, women's safety and social reform. The state introduced 50 per cent reservation for women in panchayats and urban local bodies in 2006-07 under the then NDA government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The initiative has opened up opportunities for women to participate in grassroots governance and contribute to rural development. Women mukhiyas, ward members and representatives associated with Jeevika self-help groups are increasingly taking the lead in addressing local challenges, challenging entrenched…