Two women Sarpanchs, or village heads, from Kutch district, Gujarat were recognised for their efforts by receiving a special invitation to attend the Independence Day ceremony on August 15 at the Red Fort in Delhi.

National conference for women

Prior to this, on August 14, a national conference on women's leadership was held at Janpath, with elected women representatives from across the country in attendance. Among them, the two women Sarpanchs from Kutch district, Rashmiben Changa and Chandrikaben Rangani, were invited by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India to participate in this important seminar.

Rashmiben Changa, Sarpanch of Kunariya village, has done remarkable work in her community, promoting education, health, and girl-child empowerment. Under her leadership, the village has seen the development of basic amenities and infrastructure. Additionally, she has received special training from organisations like Kutch Mahila Vikas Samiti (KMVS) and CLGF, which has greatly strengthened her work.

Chandrikaben Rangani, Sarpanch of Kanakpar village, has worked towards improving water supply, employment opportunities, and women's participation. Under her leadership, the village has seen successful implementation of rural development projects and important schemes. She, too, has received training from KMVS and CLGF, which has also helped with the successful implementation of various strategies.

Ringing endorsement for women

The invitation to both the ceremony and conference is a ringing endorsement for both women and the impact their leadership has had on their communities. It is also a clear indication that the contribution of women is being taken seriously and is an important step towards promoting women's leadership.

Regional Programme Manager for Asia, Ms Anuya Kuwar, said: “It is very gratifying that these women are being celebrated not just for the tangible benefits they have brought to their communities, but the way in which they demonstrate how much women can contribute when they are supported to enter public service at the local level.”