RPSI’s Four-Point Strategy Crucial for Women’s Empowerment: Dr. Neelam Gorhe at Kochi Roundtable Conference

Mumbai : “Without the active participation of women in the implementation, planning, and evaluation of public campaigns, these initiatives cannot achieve success,” asserted Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Dr. Neelam Gorhe. She emphasized that the “RPSI Four-Point Strategy” plays a vital role in empowering women.

A roundtable conference for women in politics was organized in Kochi from November 29 to December 1, focusing extensively on women’s empowerment. Dr. Gorhe, also the Chairperson of the Women’s Support Centre, delivered the keynote on “Creating a Political Network of Women MPs and MLAs for Empowerment” and concluded the conference.

Dr. Gorhe highlighted the four pillars of RPSI for women’s empowerment:

1. Gender-Responsive and Accountable Leadership to ensure equality.
2. Developing Networks from Local to National Levels, with a focus on time-based, quality decision-making.
3. Plurality and Diversity in Indian Politics, accommodating various political fields.
4. Comprehensive Discussions on Legal, Policy, and International Issues, addressing critical developments.

Drawing from her four-decade journey as a social activist, Dr. Gorhe said, “Women have always been central to my work. Effective implementation of government welfare schemes and initiatives is essential at the grassroots level. The provision of reservations for women in local bodies and Indian Parliament is a significant step, considering their population percentage.”

Dr. Gorhe advocated for proactive measures in policymaking for women MPs and MLAs, emphasizing dedicated funding for sustainable development. She also stressed the importance of awareness campaigns linked to the UN Women’s Beijing+30 theme and the 69th session of the Global Women’s Commission.

Highlighting the need for technological adoption, she said, “Women are leading at all levels, from global to local. There is a pressing need for digitizing women’s groups and capacity-building programs. Legislatures must ensure meaningful, outcome-focused discussions on socio-economic and environmental issues in every session.”

Dr. Gorhe suggested organizing a National Roundtable Conference of Women Legislators to review health, education, and women’s safety comprehensively. She also linked women’s economic growth to sustainable development goals.

Referring to the Mukhyamantri Ladki Behna Yojana, she noted its success in encouraging women to participate in elections, resulting in victories in multiple constituencies. She remarked, “These women voters have become ambassadors of sustainable development and social transformation.”

During the meeting, crucial decisions were made about building a network of women representatives.