Introduction
Women in rural India face various forms of disempowerment due to cultural, social, economic, and systemic challenges. These issues are deeply rooted in traditional norms and structural inequalities that limit their opportunities and reinforce their marginalization. Cultural norms, limited access to education, and lack of awareness about their rights often keep these women out of decision-making processes. Despite these barriers, empowering women to take active roles in local institutions such as gram sabhas, gram panchayats, and school management committees can unlock transformative change for them as individuals and also for the entire rural community.
“Women’s rights are not a privilege but a fundamental aspect of human rights.”
—Savitribai Phule
S M Sehgal Foundation has taken a significant step toward realizing this vision through a Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model. This initiative bridges information gaps, polishes leadership skills, and equips women with the tools they need to become active contributors to local development.
The need for women in rural India to participate in local institutions
Active participation of women in local institutions such as gram sabhas, gram panchayats, and school management committees is vital for holistic rural development. As primary caregivers, women have a deep understanding of community issues like education, healthcare, water, and infrastructure. Their involvement ensures these concerns are addressed, resulting in policies and programs that meet the needs of families and communities.
Including women in decision-making promotes gender equality, challenges traditional norms, and empowers other women and girls to step forward. This creates a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities. Women leaders also serve as bridges between governance and local communities, creating transparency, accountability, and effective implementation of development initiatives.
Studies show that gender-diverse decision-making bodies prioritize health, education, and social welfare, which drive sustainable and inclusive growth. Empowering women in rural institutions, not only gives women a voice but also paves the way for stronger, more inclusive communities. Women’s active participation is essential for the progress and development of rural areas.
Women Leadership School (WLS) initiative for the empowerment of women in rural India
The Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model by S M Sehgal Foundation is a pivotal program designed to empower rural women to actively participate in local governance and community development. Under the Empowering Women in Local Development initiative, S M Sehgal Foundation collaborated with Crossing Borders in January 2021 for the implementation of the Women’s Leadership School (WLS) model. This is being implemented in twenty villages of Muzaffarpur, Bihar, to enhance women’s leadership at the grassroots level. This initiative emphasizes capacity building and collective action in year-long training sessions that equip women leaders with practical knowledge and skills to drive change in their communities.
The WLS model employs a “learn by doing” methodology, using participatory tools such as Snakes and Ladders and Ludo to make learning engaging and impactful. These tools help educate women on essential aspects of decision-making and leadership, making the training process accessible and relatable. The program involves monthly sessions, bringing together 25–30 women leaders from diverse roles, including elected representatives, members of self-help groups (SHGs), and frontline health workers such as ASHA and anganwadi workers.
The training focuses on three critical areas: confidence building to empower women to voice their concerns effectively, gender equality awareness to challenge and change societal norms, and active participation in local institutions, including community monitoring of government programs. By addressing these areas, the WLS initiative ensures that women are well-equipped to assume leadership roles and their voices are heard in decision-making processes that shape village development. Through this innovative approach, the WLS model creates a robust foundation for empowering women to become catalysts for positive change in rural communities.
Leadership story of a woman in rural India: Abha Kumari
In Narayanpur, Muzaffarpur district in Bihar, Abha Kumari’s journey epitomizes the transformative power of the Women Leadership School initiative. Abha and her husband, Ashok Kumar, run a small grocery store in their village. Before joining WLS, Abha’s identity was often overshadowed by her husband, reflecting the traditional gender roles prevalent in rural India. In 2021, Abha joined the WLS program and began her transformation. The training sessions equipped her with practical skills, confidence, and knowledge about governance. For the first time, she participated in gram sabha meetings and realized the importance of advocating for her community’s needs. Abha says, “Earlier, women never came out of their houses to participate. The discussions and conversations were limited to small gatherings in the neighborhood. Our husbands’ views echoed the limitations society placed on women, which held us back. Now we have started to take charge of our families, work, and identities. Things are changing, and the men have begun coming forward to support us. Earlier, I used to be addressed as the ‘wife of Ashok,’ but now I am called ‘Abha, who runs the grocery shop.’ Being acknowledged by society and in the family as individuals encourages and inspires us to improve the environment and circumstances surrounding us.” Abha is now a recognized leader in her village. She motivates other women to speak up, address pressing issues, and actively engage in village meetings. Her newfound confidence has changed not only her life but also the way women’s roles are perceived in Narayanpur.
The WLS model enabled her to challenge stereotypes and emerge as an agent of change, proving that empowering one woman can inspire an entire community.
Click on this video to hear Abha Kumari share her inspiring journey of leadership and community transformation in her own words.
The lasting impact of empowered women leaders in rural development
Empowering women in rural India creates profound ripple effects that extend beyond individuals to transform entire communities. The Women’s Leadership School (WLS) initiative has demonstrated that when women leaders are empowered, they catalyze development and create a culture of progress and inclusion.
Through their active participation in local institutions, women leaders ensure that development projects are aligned with the genuine needs of their communities. Their collective action amplifies their ability to demand accountability from local authorities, promoting governance that is transparent and inclusive. This collaborative approach ensures that community voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes, leading to meaningful and sustainable outcomes.
The presence of women in leadership roles inspires future generations by creating a culture of inclusion and possibility. As young girls witness women breaking traditional barriers, they are encouraged to dream bigger and aspire to leadership themselves. This generational impact not only sustains progress but also nurtures future leaders who will continue to advocate for equality and development in their communities. Through initiatives like WLS, the groundwork is laid for lasting, transformative change.
Conclusion
The Women’s Leadership Schools have become a beacon of hope and empowerment for women in rural India, enabling them to step into leadership roles and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Through this platform, women like Abha and her fellow trainees are not just challenging traditional gender roles but are also shaping the future of their villages. Each step they take, no matter how small, is a stride toward breaking barriers, uplifting their communities, and inspiring others to follow. These women are proving that true empowerment comes from within—and together, they’re creating change that will resonate for generations to come.
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