Why in News?
Recently, the Lok Sabha Speaker constituted the Committee on Empowerment of Women for the current parliamentary term.
About the Committee on Empowerment of Women
- The Committee was constituted for the first time on 29 April 1997 during the 11th Lok Sabha.
- It is a Parliamentary Committee aimed at reviewing measures for the welfare and empowerment of women in India.
Composition
The Committee consists of 30 Members:
- 20 Members nominated by the Speaker from the Lok Sabha
- 10 Members nominated by the Chairman from the Rajya Sabha
Term of the Committee
- The term of the Committee does not exceed one year.
- It is reconstituted annually.
Nature of Working
- Members are expected to work collectively beyond party affiliations.
- The Committee functions in a bipartisan manner for advancing women’s welfare and empowerment.
Functions of the Committee
1. Examining Reports of National Commission for Women
- Considers reports submitted by the National Commission for Women (NCW).
- Recommends measures to improve the status and conditions of women.
2. Reviewing Government Measures
The Committee examines steps taken by the Union Government for:
- Equality and dignity of women
- Gender justice
- Women’s welfare and protection
3. Representation and Education
It reviews government initiatives regarding:
- Comprehensive education for women
- Adequate representation of women in:
- Legislative bodies
- Government services
- Other sectors
4. Monitoring Welfare Programmes
- Examines the implementation and effectiveness of welfare schemes for women.
5. Reviewing Action Taken Reports
- Reviews action taken by:
- Union Government
- Union Territory administrations
on recommendations made by the Committee.
6. Other Assigned Matters
- The Committee may examine any issue:
- Referred by the House
- Referred by the Speaker of Lok Sabha
- Referred by the Chairman of Rajya Sabha
Significance of the Committee
Parliamentary Oversight
- Ensures accountability of the government regarding women-centric policies and programmes.
Women Empowerment
- Promotes gender equality and women’s participation in governance and development.
Policy Improvement
- Helps identify gaps in implementation of schemes related to women’s welfare.
Democratic Inclusion
- Encourages inclusive governance and representation of women in public institutions.
Challenges
- Recommendations of Parliamentary Committees are advisory in nature.
- Implementation gaps often remain in women welfare schemes.
- Gender disparities persist in political and economic participation.
Conclusion
The Committee on Empowerment of Women plays an important role in strengthening parliamentary oversight over policies affecting women. By reviewing welfare programmes, representation, and gender justice measures, the Committee contributes significantly to promoting inclusive governance and women’s empowerment in India.