In the fifth year of governance, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami is preparing to gift the women of Uttarakhand a dedicated and robust state-level women’s policy. After initiating landmark steps such as 30% horizontal reservation for women in government jobs and implementing reservation in cooperative societies, the Dhami government is now drafting a comprehensive policy to strengthen women’s representation and economic empowerment.
Existing Milestones in Women Empowerment
Over the past four years, several impactful schemes have been launched:
- 30% Reservation in Government Jobs:
The government reinstated 30% horizontal reservation for women domiciled in Uttarakhand, significantly improving their presence in government offices. The provision was officially enacted on 10 January 2023 with the Governor’s approval. - 33% Reservation in Cooperative Societies:
Beyond local bodies and panchayats, reservation has now been extended to cooperative societies, paving the way for broader women’s leadership at all levels. - Women-Oriented Economic Schemes:
Initiatives such as Mahila Saarthi Yojana, Ekal Mahila Swarozgar Yojana, and Lakhpati Didi have been implemented to promote economic independence. Under the Mahila Saarthi Yojana, women in Dehradun are already operating auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers to provide last-mile transport services.
CM Dhami stated, “Matrishakti is the backbone of Uttarakhand’s society. Without empowering women, society cannot progress. Our upcoming women’s policy will consolidate and expand upon our existing commitment to women’s welfare and development.”
The draft of the new Women’s Policy is expected to be presented before the Cabinet soon.
