The Committee of Secretaries has approved the draft of the Women’s Policy, which is being formulated for the first time in Uttarakhand. A proposal to implement this policy will now be presented to the Cabinet. Its objective is to ensure the economic, social, and political development of the women of the state.
According to departmental officials, the draft policy has been prepared with the holistic development of women in mind. It recommends the organization of ‘Mahila Sabhas’ (Women’s Assemblies) at the Gram Panchayat level to encourage women’s participation. Provisions have also been included to take necessary measures to address the challenges faced by women belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, as well as working women. Once approved by the Cabinet, this policy will be implemented across the state. Alongside the Women’s Policy, an accompanying Action Plan is also being prepared.
**Action Plan Being Prepared on the Lines of Maharashtra**
Maharashtra has formulated a Women’s Policy. According to departmental officials, an Action Plan is being drafted along similar lines. Maharashtra’s Women’s Policy stipulates that a high-powered state-level committee, chaired by the Chief Minister, will be constituted to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment. The Minister for Women and Child Development, along with other key ministers, will serve as members of this committee. This committee will oversee the implementation of the policy and convene meetings whenever necessary.
“Following the preparation of the draft Women’s Policy, it has received approval during a meeting of the Committee of Secretaries. The proposal regarding this will now be presented to the Cabinet.” — B.L. Rana, Director, Department of Women Empowerment and Child Development
“The formulation of this Women’s Policy will empower women across all sectors—social, economic, health, and education. The draft is currently under administrative review and can be brought before the Cabinet at any time.”
