Urbanisation in Developing Countries: Basic Services and Community Participation

This book examines the role of women members of Gram Panchayats in Tripura since 1993, when their representation in Panchayats increased due to reservation of seats as a result of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. Analysing their socio economical and political background as well as their level of awareness about socio-political situation and their exposure to outside world, it investigates whether their election to Panchayat bodies has made any significant change in status of women in rural areas. Further discussing the factors that motivated women members to plunge into politics and fight Panchayat elections, the study outlines the difficulties they face in performing dual roles-the management of household and social affairs. Also, it probes to what extent the women members of Gram Panchayat are now able to make decisions independently.