(a) whether National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad has reported that
India is one of the most backward countries in the matter of womens` rights;
(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;
(c) the name of the States which are the most backward in this regard; and
(d) the action proposed to be taken to improve the situation?
MINISTER OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI SUNDAR LAL PATWA)
(a) to (d): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
Statement referred to in the reply to Lok Sabha Starred Question No. 651 for reply on 11.5.2000.
The India Rural Development Report, 1999 of the National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad does not refer to the issue of women`s rights, but deals with those relating to women`s development and inequalities, in terms of which the States of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have been identified to be lagging behind.
2. The measures initiated by the Government of India in regard to women`s development include the following:-
(i) `Women centred approach to development` is an important strategy
adopted in Rural Development Programmes.
(ii) The earlier, successful experiences of Development of Women and
Children in Rural Areas (DWCRA), in improving the income levels and empowerment of women, have been given further thrust by stipulating that 50 per cent of groups, formed under Swarnjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY), should be for women.
(iii) Minimum 33% reservation for women in all tiers of Panchayati Raj
Institutions.
(iv) 30% earmarking for women in all wage employment programmes of the
Ministry of Rural Development.
(v) Under the National Social Assistance Programme, the National Maternity
Benefit Scheme (NMBS) provides lump sum cash assistance to pregnant women of households living below the poverty line.