Vijayapura District Congress Leader Highlights Need for Greater Women’s Representation in Politics and Governance
Vijayapura: Women’s empowerment is a crucial factor in the progress and development of the nation. Providing women with access to education, economic independence, employment opportunities and equal representation in governance is essential for building a stronger society, said Vijayapura District Congress leader Snehalata Shetty.
Speaking to Republic Next, Shetty shared her views on various government initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment and increasing women’s participation in social, economic and political fields.
She said that the government has been focusing on women’s empowerment through several welfare initiatives, including the ‘Gruha Lakshmi’ scheme, ‘Shakti’ scheme and ‘Koosina Mane’ initiative, which have contributed towards improving women’s financial security, mobility and social development.
“Women’s participation at the grassroots level is very important for effective governance. Gram Panchayats have a significant role in ensuring that women become socially and economically empowered and actively participate in administrative processes,” Shetty said.
Need to Identify and Encourage Women Leaders
Highlighting the importance of women’s representation in political organisations, Snehalata Shetty said that capable, committed and experienced women leaders should be identified and provided opportunities in key positions, committees and various government bodies.
“Women leaders who have worked at the grassroots level should be recognised based on their ability, experience and dedication. Providing them with suitable responsibilities will strengthen women’s empowerment and ensure better representation in governance,” she said.

She urged District Minister M.B. Patil and Congress leaders to encourage deserving women leaders in Vijayapura district and ensure that appointments are made based on merit, experience and leadership qualities.
Women’s Participation Vital for Welfare Schemes
Shetty said that active involvement of women leaders is essential for the effective implementation of government schemes aimed at women’s welfare and empowerment.
She also drew attention to sanitation issues in rural parts of Vijayapura district, stating that some villages continue to face challenges related to open defecation, which affects public health and quality of life.
“To achieve the goal of an open-defecation-free district, every household must have access to individual toilets. The District Congress Women’s Committee should create awareness among people and highlight such issues before the government for necessary action,” she said.
Snehalata Shetty emphasised that empowering women and providing them equal opportunities in leadership and decision-making will contribute significantly to building a progressive and developed society.
— Republic Next News Desk
