Dumka: Jhikrahatti Purvi panchayat in Jharkhand's Pakur district has achieved second place in the 'women-friendly panchayat' category at the national panchayat awards. The award was presented by Union Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Minister of State S P Singh Baghel at a formal ceremony in Delhi on Wednesday.
Recognition and Transformation
Panchayat mukhiya Nargis Sultana and secretary Mohammad Mustaqir received the award on behalf of the panchayat. A minority-dominated panchayat under Pakur Sadar block, Jhikrahatti Purvi was once characterized by limited economic opportunities, with many women engaged in bidi-making and daily wage labor. However, sustained and coordinated efforts by the district administration, the Jharkhand State Livelihood Promotion Society (JSLPS), and the health and education departments have led to a significant transformation, according to the mukhiya.
Empowerment Through Self-Help Groups
Through targeted interventions, women were mobilized into self-help groups, made aware of their rights, and encouraged to pursue alternative livelihood options. 'There has been a remarkable social and economic change within a short period due to the collective efforts of panchayat representatives and local women,' said Mukhiya Nargis Sultana. The initiatives have helped improve financial independence, participation in decision-making, and overall social status of women in the panchayat, transforming it into a model for grassroots, women-centric governance.
District Administration's Pride
Deputy Commissioner Megha Bhardwaj termed the recognition a 'proud moment' for the district. 'This award will inspire other panchayats and reaffirm our commitment to public participation, women empowerment, and sustainable development,' she said. The DC expressed confidence that panchayats across Pakur would continue to deliver exemplary work and strengthen their presence on the national stage.
This achievement highlights the power of collective action in driving social change, particularly in rural areas where women often face multiple barriers. The success of Jhikrahatti Purvi serves as an inspiration for other panchayats to adopt similar approaches for inclusive development.
