Citizen Perception about elected Women panchayat leaders: A study of Patiala and Sangrur Districts

Abstract Sustainable rural development depends on the active participation of all sections of society in local governance and decision-making. People's participation extends beyond contributing financial resources or manual labour; it involves meaningful engagement in identifying community needs, planning development initiatives, implementing programmes, and monitoring outcomes. Within this framework, women's participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) has emerged as a significant instrument for strengthening grassroots democracy, promoting inclusive governance, and enhancing socio-economic development. The constitutional reservation of seats for women in PRIs has increased their political representation; however, the extent of their effective participation and leadership in local governance continues to vary across regions. The present study examines the role of leadership and women's participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions in promoting rural development. The study is based on primary data collected from 94 respondents in Barnala District and 74 respondents in Sangrur District of Punjab through structured questionnaires and personal interviews. Using random sampling, the research analyses the extent of citizens' participation, perceptions of local leadership, and the contribution of elected women representatives towards village development. The findings are expected to provide insights into the opportunities and challenges associated with women's participation in PRIs and its impact on strengthening democratic governance and sustainable rural development. Keywords: Panchayati Raj Institutions, Women's Participation, Rural Development, Local Governance, Leadership, People's Participation, Grassroots Democracy.