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DOI: https://doi.org/10.63345/ijrsml.v13.i5.3
Renu Yadav
Research Scholar
Maharaja Agrasen Himalayan Garhwal University
Uttarakhand, India
Dr. P.P.S. Rana
Research Guide
Maharaja Agrasen Himalayan Garhwal University
Uttarakhand, India
Abstract— Women’s participation in democratic institutions is an important indicator of political equality, inclusive governance, and social development. In India, the representation of women in Parliament has gradually increased over the years; however, their overall participation remains comparatively lower than that of men. Despite these limitations, women parliamentarians have played a significant role in raising issues related to gender equality, women’s rights, education, healthcare, child welfare, social justice, and inclusive policy-making. The present study examines the role of women parliamentarians in promoting gender equality and social welfare in India through an analysis of existing academic literature, parliamentary perspectives, and welfare-oriented political participation. The review highlights that women Members of Parliament contribute not only through numerical representation but also through substantive representation by actively participating in debates, policy discussions, committee work, and welfare advocacy. Existing studies indicate that women parliamentarians are often more likely to address issues concerning violence against women, educational access, healthcare services, and the protection of marginalized communities. The literature further suggests that women representatives help strengthen democratic inclusiveness and encourage greater political awareness among women in society. The study also identifies major challenges affecting the effectiveness of women parliamentarians, including patriarchal political structures, unequal access to leadership positions, party-based limitations, financial barriers, and gender stereotypes within political institutions. Although constitutional and democratic frameworks support equal participation, structural inequalities continue to influence women’s representation and decision-making authority in Parliament. The review concludes that women parliamentarians play an important role in advancing gender-sensitive governance and welfare-oriented political discourse in India. However, greater institutional support, increased political participation, leadership opportunities, and policy-level inclusion are necessary to strengthen their contribution toward achieving gender equality and broader social welfare objectives.
Keywords— Women Parliamentarians, Gender Equality, Social Welfare, Women Empowerment, Political Representation, Indian Parliament, Democratic Participation, Women Leadership, Inclusive Governance, Social Justice
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