Abstract

The development of Gram Panchayats has long been recognized as a cornerstone in the democratization and decentralization of governance in India. Within this framework gender mainstreaming emerges as a critical element to ensure equitable participation empowerment and representation of women in local governance structures. The present study investigates the role of gender mainstreaming in the planning and development of Gram Panchayats examining the policies mechanisms and outcomes associated with womens engagement in governance. It emphasizes the interplay between structural reforms participatory processes and socio-cultural factors that facilitate or hinder gender-sensitive development in rural local bodies. Employing a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods the study evaluates the effectiveness of existing government schemes legal mandates and capacity-building initiatives aimed at promoting womens participation in Panchayati Raj institutions. Key findings sugge