National Conference of Women Panchayat Leaders

Current Context: On 11 March 2026, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj organised a one‑day National Conference of Women Elected Representatives of Panchayats in New Delhi.

• It was chaired by Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), with participation from Union Ministers Annpurna Devi, S.P. Singh Baghel, and Raksha Nikhil Khadse.
• Theme: Sashakt Panchayat – Netri Abhiyan: Strengthening Women’s Leadership in Grassroots Governance.
• Aim: To empower women leaders in Panchayats, enhance their capacity, digital skills, and leadership role in rural governance.
• Over 700+ women representatives from across India attended, sharing experiences and best practices.
• Launch of initiatives like “Nirbhay Raho” under the Nirbhaya Fund to improve women’s safety in rural areas.
• Significance: Reinforces gender inclusion, participatory democracy, and grassroots leadership in India’s Panchayati Raj system.

Question:

Q.1 Which initiative aimed at improving women’s safety in rural areas was launched during the National Conference of Women Elected Representatives of Panchayats (2026)?
a) Beti Suraksha Mission
b) Nirbhay Raho
c) Sakhi Gram Yojana
d) Mahila Raksha Abhiyan

Answer: b) The initiative “Nirbhay Raho” was launched to strengthen safety mechanisms for women in rural areas.