WOMEN EMPOWERMENT THROUGH PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS IN EAST SIANG DISTRICT OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

The introduction of Panchayati Raj Institution in 1969 in the then, North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) and present Arunachal Pradesh brought landmark changes in the outlook of tribal society especially towards its women. The introduction of modern democratic institutions in grassroots level legally empowered the tribal women to participate in rd the decision-making process of the society. This was further boosted by 73 Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 that reserved thirty three percent of the seats in Panchayat Institutions for the women. This really helped and empowered the women. Accordingly women are also elected as the member of PRIs. But it is often found that the rural tribal women lack in decision-making in various aspects whether it is social, economic, political or family matters and hence are dictated by their male counterparts.