← All questionsGS2 · 2019 · Polity ·Women's Reservation in Local Bodies and Patriarchy
QUESTION 13
GS2
15 marks

“The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment.

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11 min
250 words
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What the examiner wants

Comment on whether women's reservation in panchayats and municipalities has changed the patriarchal nature of politics.

CommentGive your own view on the statement and back it with facts and examples.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1Gains: over 14 lakh women representatives, focus on water, sanitation, schooling; confidence and leadership≈50 words
  2. 2Limits: proxy rule (sarpanch-pati), low education, rotation, male control of parties≈50 words
  3. 3Evidence: Chattopadhyay–Duflo study on priorities≈50 words
  4. 4Measures: training, ban on proxies, longer rotation≈50 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

GainsLimitsEvidenceMeasuresConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Only praise or only criticism
  • No data, e.g. over 14 lakh women representatives, Chattopadhyay–Duflo findings on priorities

Draw this

  • Scale: empowerment vs patriarchy

Value addition

  • StudyChattopadhyay and Duflo (2004): women-led panchayats in West Bengal and Rajasthan invested more in drinking water.Econometrica, 2004
  • DataAbout 46% of elected panchayat representatives are women (21 states have 50% reservation).Ministry of Panchayati Raj