New Delhi: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched the 'Nirbhay Raho' initiative to enhance women's safety and empowerment in rural areas. The initiative aims to strengthen women's safety infrastructure by installing CCTV cameras at strategic locations and sensitizing male representatives on gender equality.
Union Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh said that the 'Sashakt Panchayat - Netri Abhiyan' reflects a national resolve to place women at the centre of grassroots democracy. He noted that more than 14.5 lakh elected women representatives are playing a key role in governance at the local level.
The ministry also announced that financial support to local bodies has increased significantly over the years, with the 16th Finance Commission recommending ₹4,35,236 crore for rural local bodies for 2026-31.
