POLITICAL EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN IN KERALA THROUGH KUDUMBASREE

Women, being the integral part of every economy are primary factors for all round development and harmonious growth of a nation .In the present scenario women are to be considered as equal partners in progress with men. Empowerment of women is a multidimensional phenomenon and covers economic, political, social, cultural, personal, environmental and familial aspects. Women’s equal participation in political life plays a pivotal role in the process of upliftment and advancement of women. Women’s role in decision making is one of the most important aspects that need to be considered on their empowerment. Though women face handicaps in politics, their participation in SHGs/NHGs have altered their outlook and they have become political leaders in local self-government institutions in India. The concept of SHGs/NHGs have drastically changed the lives of women, especially in rural areas .On the context of 50% reservation of women in LSGI,the paper tries to focus on the revolution started by the hands with bangles marking a sea change . It has been found that large numbers of women from traditional backgrounds emerges from the cloisters of their kitchen and knock on anonymous doors, walk through the streets and argue on public platforms when they contest the elections. The SHGs/NHGs and NGOs play a major role in empowering women politically. The political participation of women is twofold. Women have always and almost everywhere been on the fringe of political and social power. The paper tries to focus on the experience of women, their representation and participation in political arena. The women’s experience in the political role, the processes of change and problems of participation, support of families, communities and other social collectives and empowering effect is also looked upon.