by Fr Bento D’Souza for BIS Mumbai

Over two days from March 3 and 4, 2025, Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) from rural Maharashtra gathered at Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra for a transformative residential training focused on Good Governance, Development-Oriented Leadership, Gender Sensitivity, and Organizational Skills. The program aimed to equip women leaders with the tools to navigate local governance structures, advocate for equitable policies, and drive community development. Facilitators like Fr Ajay D’monte, Sandeep Berad, Bhavna Ghatvisave and Ashok Sabban led sessions on constitutional frameworks such as the 73rd Amendment, emphasizing women’s roles in Gram Sabhas and Mahila Sabhas. Through interactive workshops, participants explored strategies to overcome systemic barriers, foster inclusivity, and lead with confidence in male-dominated spaces.

The training blended theory with practice. Icebreaker activities ignited the participants, while group discussions encouraged collaborative problem-solving around challenges like resource allocation and societal biases. Sessions on gender sensitivity sparked candid conversations about inequality, empowering women to address discrimination in their villages. Practical workshops on organizational skills and documentation techniques equipped participants to manage projects transparently. “Before this training, I hesitated to speak up in Gram Sabha meetings,” shared Abhilasha Ghorpade, Sarpanch of Mathni Village. “Now, I understand my rights and how to mobilize resources for our community’s needs.” Similarly, Vaishali Kandekar, Panchayat Member from Ahmednagar, reflected, “Learning about the 73rd Amendment gave me clarity on my role. I’m determined to ensure women’s voices shape our village’s future.”

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to action. Participants left with actionable plans to launch awareness campaigns and mentor fellow women leaders. “This training wasn’t just about knowledge—it was about solidarity,” remarked Chaya Bangal, Women’s Collective Leader from Vaijapur. “We’re returning as a stronger network, ready to challenge stereotypes and lead change.” By bridging policy awareness with grassroots advocacy, this initiative marks a pivotal step toward gender-inclusive governance in rural India.