Women MPs’ contribution has increased in Parliament

Source: The post is based on the article “Women MPs’ contribution has increased in Parliament. Data proves it” published in “Indian express” on 11th October 2023.

Syllabus: GS1- Society- Social empowerment

News: The article discusses the positive impact of policies by Indian government on women and highlights how women in Parliament, especially from BJP party, are actively questioning the government and focusing on key issues like healthcare and education.

How have Indian government policies impacted women?

Health Benefits: Increased access to LPG cooking fuel has improved women’s health and well-being. This shift from traditional cooking methods has had direct health benefits.

Safety Improvements: Enhanced toilet accessibility has ensured better safety and health for women, reducing risks associated with open defecation.

Economic Empowerment: Policies like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana have primarily benefitted women, with a majority being women account holders. This has provided them with banking facilities and financial independence.

Property Ownership: Under PM Awas Yojana, many houses are registered under women heads of families, furthering their economic empowerment.

Active Participation in Politics: Women in Parliament have been more active, especially in the 16th Lok Sabha. Data shows they raised nearly as many questions as their male counterparts, signifying their increased role in governance.

What role do women leaders play in Parliament?

Engagement in Parliament: In the 15th Lok Sabha, women MPs asked fewer questions (135) compared to male MPs (250). This disparity was notably reduced in the 16th Lok Sabha, where women MPs asked 218 questions, nearly mirroring the 219 questions asked by men.

Focus on Vital Social Issues: Women MPs often concentrate on crucial areas like healthcare, education, roads, and MSMEs, prioritizing the welfare of the more vulnerable segments of society.

Intricate Party Dynamics: Women MPs from the BJP asked a median of 355 questions in the 15th Lok Sabha, starkly contrasted with the INC women MPs, who asked only 58. In the 16th Lok Sabha, BJP women MPs continued their active engagement by asking a significant number of questions (346) even to their own governing party.

Exercising Accountability: Regardless of the government in power, women MPs exhibited a commitment to holding the government accountable, demonstrating empowerment and active participation in democratic processes.