New Delhi: In a significant push to eliminate proxy representation and empower women leaders in grassroots governance, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has launched the “Sashakt Panchayat Netri Abhiyan” (सशक्त पंचायत-नेत्री अभियान). The initiative, aimed at ensuring genuine leadership by elected women representatives in Panchayati Raj Institutions, was inaugurated alongside the premiere of Asli Pradhan Kaun?, a compelling digital production by The Viral Fever (TVF).
The film, set in the world of TVF’s acclaimed web series Panchayat, was screened at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, before an audience of over 1,200 elected women representatives from across the country. Featuring celebrated actors Neena Gupta, Chandan Roy, and Faisal Malik, Asli Pradhan Kaun? sheds light on the pervasive issue of ‘Sarpanch Pati’ culture, where male family members informally exercise power on behalf of elected women leaders. The narrative emphasizes the importance of genuine female leadership and the transformative role women can play in rural governance.
A Story with a Purpose
Speaking about her role in the film, veteran actor Neena Gupta expressed her excitement about being part of a project with a meaningful social message. “It’s always a pleasure to be part of stories that have a purpose. Asli Pradhan Kaun? is not just another production – it is a reflection of real-life challenges faced by women in rural India. I am excited for audiences to see how beautifully this message has been conveyed through storytelling,” she said.
The initiative aligns with the findings of the recent report titled Transforming Women’s Representation and Roles in Panchayati Raj Systems and Institutions: Eliminating Efforts for Proxy Participation. The report has gained momentum in highlighting the need for direct participation of women in governance, reinforcing the MoPR’s commitment to strengthening female leadership in rural India.
Upcoming Digital Productions to Drive Change
Following the success of Asli Pradhan Kaun?, the Ministry has announced two additional productions that will further its mission:
- Digital Intervention and Transparency – Showcasing how technology can revolutionize rural governance and improve accountability.
- Own Source Revenue – Highlighting the importance of financial independence and self-reliance for Panchayats.
These productions will feature actors Durgesh Kumar and Bullu Kumar and aim to raise awareness about critical governance challenges while encouraging women to take an active role in leadership.
A Year-Long Campaign for Women Empowerment
The Sashakt Panchayat Netri Abhiyan is designed as a year-long campaign to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of Women Elected Representatives in Panchayati Raj Institutions. It focuses on skill-building, leadership training, and awareness programs to ensure that women in governance positions can exercise their constitutional rights and responsibilities effectively.
