DR. VIJAY S. PATEL
Department of Commerce, SHRI J.S.BHAKTA AND SHRI K.M BHAKTA ARTS, SHRI A.N.SHAH SCIENCE AND SHRI N.F. SHAH COMMERCE COLLEGE, KHOLWAD
ABSTRACT
Women have played an integral role in shaping modern Indian politics, both as leaders and as influencers of public policy. Historically marginalized in the political sphere, Indian women have overcome significant challenges to become key players in the nation’s governance and development. The political participation of women in India has evolved considerably since independence, with milestones such as the introduction of reserved seats in local governance and the election of prominent female leaders like Indira Gandhi, the country’s first and only female Prime Minister to date. Despite these achievements, women remain underrepresented in the higher echelons of political power, facing systemic barriers such as patriarchal norms, gender bias, and limited access to resources. This article explores the historical context of women in Indian politics, the progress made over the decades, and the current challenges they face. It also examines the impact of women’s political participation on policy-making, particularly in areas such as social welfare, education, and women’s rights. By highlighting the achievements and ongoing struggles of women in Indian politics, the article underscores the need for continued efforts to achieve gender parity and ensure that women’s voices are adequately represented in the democratic process.
Keywords: Modern India, Women in Politics
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