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Data Analysis and Interpretation
79
CHAPTER – IV
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
CHAMARAJANAGARA DISTRICT DATA ANALYSIS
The data collected from the study area in the two districts were tabulated
broadly under five heads. The issues were drawn from the interview schedules and
were used as testing tools. The broad issues covered include general information
about the - (1) profile of elected women representatives in the Grama Panchayats, (2)
participation of the elected women representatives in social activities before becoming
a member of the Panchayat, (3) identifying the factors motivating the women to
contest in the Panchayat election, (4) analyse the problems and difficulties
experienced by the elected women representatives in relation to their role, and (5) To
study the strategies adopted by the elected women representatives in implementing
development programmes.
4.1: Profile of Elected Women Representatives in the Grama Panchayats
Table No. 4.1.1: Age of Respondents
Age of the
Respondents
(in years)
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
21-25 03 (06.7) 00(0) 02 (04.4) 02(11.1)
26-30 12 (26.7) 07 (17.9) 06 (13.3) 06(33.3)
31-35 09 (20.0) 10 (25.6) 14 (31.1) 04(22.2)
36-40 05 (11.1) 08 (20.5) 06 (13.3) 03(16.7)
41-45 05 (11.1) 00(0) 04 (08.9) 02(11.1)
46-50 06 (13.3) 04 (10.3) 06 (13.3) 01(05.6)
51-55 02 (04.4) 04 (10.3) 06 (13.3) 00(0)
56-60 03 (06.7) 01 (02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
61 -65 00(0) 05(12.8) 01 (02.2) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Mean 37.2 41.2 38.77 43
SD 9.865 11.73 9.455 6.85
Data Analysis and Interpretation
80
Table No. 4.1.1 presents the data on the age of the respondents. In
Chamarajanagara district, 26.7% of the respondents belonged to 26 to 30 years age
group, in Gundlupet 25.6% of the respondents belonged to 31 to 35 years of age
category, in Kollegal taluk 31.1% belonged to 31 to 35 years of age group, and in
Yalandur 33.3% belonged to 26 to 30 years of age group. On the whole, majority of
the respondents belonged to a young age group, that is, 26 to 35 years. The mean age
of Chamarajanagara is 37.2 (SD 9.865), the mean age of Gundlupet is 41.2
(SD11.73), the mean age of Kollegal is 38.77 (SD 9.455), and the mean age of
Yalandur is 43 (SD 6.85).
Very few percentage (Chamarajanagara 6.7%, Kollegal 4.4%, and Yelandur
11.1%) of respondents belonged to 21 to 25 years of age group. The participation of
older women is quite less. From the above data it is clear that majority of young
married women had entered local politics. In the Indian situation unmarried women
do not take an interest in joining politics due to the stereotypes associated with it.
Earlier, education and political awareness among women in the state was very low.
But now with the improvement in women‟s literacy and educational level, more
women are entering public life.
Table No. 4.1.2: Education of the Respondents
Education
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents (%)
No of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Non-Literate 19(42.2) 15(38.5) 05(11.1) 05(27.8)
Neo-Literate 01(02.2) 00(0) 12( 26.7) 03(16.7)
Pre-Primary 02(04.4) 11(28.2) 09( 20.0) 01(05.6)
Primary 06(13.3) 05(12.8) 05( 11.1) 04(22.2)
High School 13(28.9) 03(07.7) 10( 22.2) 04(22.2)
PUC 04(08.9) 02(05.1) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Degree 00(0) 03(07.7) 04(08.9) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
81
It is evident from Table 4.1.2 that majority of the respondents are literates. Of
this 4.4% under Chamarajanagara, 28.2% under Gundlupet, 20% under Kollegal, and
5.6% under Yalandur were educated up to pre-primary level. Regarding primary
education only 13.3% in Chamarajanagara, 12.8% in Gundlupet, 11.1% in Kollegal,
and 22.2% at Yalandur have studied. Regarding high school education, 28.9% in
Chamarajanagara, 7.7% in Gundlupet, 22.2% in Kollegal, and 22.2% in Yalandur
taluk have studied upto that level. However, educational background is not the criteria
to become a Grama Panchayat member, but it is also important to be literate to attain
self-confidence. Even though the government has implemented adult education
programmes through the Grama Panchayats, a large number of panchayats members
are illiterate. It indicates the failure of the programme or unable to reach all the needy
Table No. 4.1.3: Caste/Category of the Respondents
Category
(Caste)*
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
SC 20(44.4) 08(20.5) 22(48.9) 06(33.3)
ST 06(13.3) 10(25.6) 04(08.9) 08(44.4)
Cat-1 09(20.0) 10(25.6) 02(04.4) 04(22.2)
Cat -2 A 04(08.9) 05(12.8) 02(04.4) 00(0)
Cat -2 B 00(0) 00(0) 04(08.9) 00(0)
Cat -3 A 00(0) 00(0) 04(08.9) 00(0)
Cat -3 B 01(02.2) 06(15.4) 01(02.2) 00(0)
General 05(11.1) 00(0) 06(13.3) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
*The specific castes under SC, ST, Cat-1 to Cat-3B have been listed out in the appendix.
Table 4.1.3 provides data on the caste category of the respondents. As far as
SC representation is concerned, it is 44.4% in Chamarajanagara taluk, 20.5% in
Gundlupet, 48.9% in Kollegal, and 33.3% in Yalandur taluk. The Schedule Tribe
representation was naturally quite lesser than the Schedule Caste representation, that
is, 13.3% in Chamarajanagara, 25.6% in Gundlupet, 8.9% in Kollegal, and 44.4% in
Yalandur taluk. The General category representation was less, i.e., 11.1% in
Chamarajanagara and 13.3% in Kollegal taluk. The comparatively higher
representation of SCs and STs was probably due to the reservation of seats.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
82
Table No. 4.1.4 : Marital Status of the Respondents
Marital Status
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Married 39(86.7) 31(79.5) 43(95.6) 16(88.9)
Unmarried 02(04.4) 02(05.1) 02(04.4) 01(05.6)
Widow 04(08.9) 06(15.4) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Separated 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Divorced 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Table 4.1.4 throws light on data on the marital status of the respondents. The
majorities of the respondents from all the four taluks were married and were living with
their husbands. The percentage was high in Kollegal taluk, that is, 95.6% followed by
88.9% in Yalandur, 86.l7% in Chamarajanagara, and 79.5% in Gundlupet taluk. The data
depicts that very few unmarried women entered local politics in all the four taluks.
Table No. 4.1.5 : Nature of Employment of the Respondents
Employment
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Daily Wages 04(08.9) 02(05.1) 09(20.0) 02(11.1)
Agricultural Labourers 01(02.2) 01(02.6) 04(08.9) 02(11.1)
Homemaker 35(77.8) 27(69.2) 32(71.1) 14(77.8)
Self- Employment 04(08.9) 07(17.9) 00(0) 00(0)
Private Job 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Anganavadi Helper 00(0) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
It is evident from Table 4.1.5 that majority of the respondents were
homemakers (Chamarajanagara 77.8%, Gundlupet 69.2%, Kollegal 71.1%, and
Yalandur 77.8%). A few women were self- employed, i.e., 8.9% in Chamarajanagara,
and 17.9% in Gundlupet while few of the women were agricultural labourers, daily
wagers and anganwadi helpers.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
83
Table No. 4.1.6 : Annual Income of the Respondent’s Family
Annual income
of the family
(in Rs.)
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Less than 11000 19(42.2) 11(28.2) 42(93.3) 04(22.2)
11001 to 15000 15(33.3) 15(38.5) 03(06.7) 06(33.3)
15001 to 20000 05(11.1) 04(10.3) 00(0) 02(11.1)
20001 to 25000 01(02.2) 06(15.4) 00(0) 01(05.6)
25001 to 30000 01(02.2) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
30001 to 40000 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 03(16.7)
40001 to 50000 00(0) 0(02.6) 00(0) 02(11.2)
50001 to 75000 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
75001 to 100000 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
100001 to 200000 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
200001 to 300000 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Table 4.1.6 presents the annual income of the family. It is evident from the
above table that majority of the respondents do not have a sound annual income
because they fall under the income range of less than Rs.11000 and Rs.11000 to
Rs.15000. Of the total sample, only 8.8% of the respondents had Rs.75001 and
above. It indicates that the representation of women from the lower economic
background was higher. A possible reason for women having an income more than
Rs.75001 is that either they are landlords or running some kind of business.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
84
Table No. 4.1.7 : Size of the Family
Number of
family
members
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Two 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Three 02(04.4) 03(07.7) 02(04.4) 03(16.7)
Four 11(24.4) 08(20.5) 13(28.9) 04(22.2)
Five 07(15.6) 13(33.3) 09(20.0) 04(22.2)
Six 09(20.0) 07(17.9) 17(37.8) 03(16.7)
Seven 03(06.7) 03(07.7) 02(04.4) 02(11.1)
Eight 04(08.9) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Nine 02(04.4) 01(02.6) 02(04.4) 00(0)
Ten and above 05(11.0) 02(05.2) 00(0) 02(11.2)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Mean 5.8 5.4 5.2 5.3
Std.devt. 3.01 5.02 8.62 4.93
From Table 4.1.7, it is clear that the majority of the respondents‟ family
member‟s ranges from four to six. Only two respondents had two members and nine
respondent‟s had ten and above members in their family, respectively. Majority of
the members were from small and medium size families.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
85
Table No. 4.1.8 : Education of Husband
Education of
Husband
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Not applicable 06(13.3) 08(20.5) 02(04.4) 02(11.1)
Non-literate 21(46.7) 06(15.4) 23(51.1) 07(38.9)
Neo-literate 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Pre-primary 04(08.9) 02(05.1) 01(02.2) 02(11.1)
Primary 03(06.7) 12(30.8) 04(08.9) 00(0)
High School 09(20.0) 08(20.5) 07(15.6) 04(22.2)
PUC 00 00 00 03(16.7)
Degree 01(02.2) 03(07.7) 08(17.8) 00
Technical education 00 00 00 00
Post Graduation 01(02.2) 00 00 00
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
The data presented in Table 4.1.8 provides information regarding the
educational qualification of the respondents‟ husbands‟. Majority of the respondents‟
husbands were non-literates - 46.7% in Chamarajanagara and Kollegal taluk, 23.1% in
Gundlupet, and 50% in Yalandur taluk; a few were graduates and only one hailing
from Chamarajanagara taluk was a post graduate.
Figure – 1 : Type Of Family
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
Chamarajanagar
Gundlupet
Kollegal
Yalandur
44.4 (20) Joint
48.7 (19) Joint
46.7 (21) Joint
33.3 (06) Joint
48.9 (22) Nuclear
48.7 (19) Nuclear
53.3 (24) Nuclear
61.1 (11) Nuclear
6.7 (03) Extended
2.6 (01) Extended
0 Extended
5.6 (01) Extended
Extended
Nuclear
Joint
Data Analysis and Interpretation
86
Traditionally, India enjoyed the joint family system. Gradually the joint
family system disintegrated due to various factors and is replaced by the nuclear
family system. From the above data it is very clear that the majority of the
respondents were from a nuclear family. But it is also significant to note that the joint
family system has not totally disintegrated. It can be observed from Figure 1 that a
good percentage, i.e., (Chamarajanagara - 44.4%, Gundlupet - 48.7%, Kollegal -
46.7%, Yalandur - 33.3%) of the respondents belonged to a joint family.
4.2: The Participation of the Elected Women Representatives in Social
Activities before becoming a Member of the Grama Panchayat.
Table No. 4.2.1 : Membership in other Organizations
Prior to Grama Panchayat Membership
Membership
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
NGO
Membership
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100) 00
39
(100)
39
(100)
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
02
(11.1)
16
(88.9)
18
(100)
SHG
Membership
29
(64.4)
16
(35.6)
45
(100)
25
(64.1)
14
(35.19)
39
(100) 00
45
(100)
45
(100)
15
(83.3)
03
(16.7)
18
(100)
Mahila
Mandal
Membership
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100) 00
39
(100)
39
(100)
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
01
(5.6)
17
(94.4)
18
(100)
Temple/church
committee
Membership
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
SDMC
Membership
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100)
01
(2.6)
38
(97.4)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
Milk dairy
Membership
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100)
02
(5.1)
37
(94.9)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
The women members were asked if they had membership in other
organizations/associations prior to their Grama Panchayat membership. A majority of
the members had membership in Self Help Groups (Yalandur- 83.3%,
Chamarajanagara -64.4%, Gundlupet- 64.1 %). The data show the importance of Self
Help Groups and also their contribution in politically empowering women. But in
Kollegal taluk, no respondent had SHG membership. None of the respondents had
membership in temple/church committees. Some of the respondents had membership
in NGOs, Mahila Mandals, School Development and Management Committee
(SDMC) and Milk Dairy.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
87
4.3: Factors Motivating Women to Contest in the Panchayat Election
Table No. 4.3.1 : Motivational Factors to Contest in the Election
Sl.
No Motivation
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
N=45 N=39 N=45 N=18
Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank
1 Self 1.53 8 2.82 9 3.80 7 4.72 3
2 Husband 8.04 1 6.61 2 7.20 2 7.83 2
3 Children 2.91 4 4.53 4 3.35 8 2.55 8
4 Brother/s 2.37 6 3.97 6 3.84 6 1.22 10
5 Sister/s 1.75 7 4.48 5 2.46 9 4.22 5
6 Relatives 3.71 3 6.30 3 5.46 3 4.44 4
7 Villagers 6.35 2 7.17 1 7.42 1 8.16 1
8 Political party 1.13 10 3.02 7 4.82 4 3.27 6
9 SHG 1.37 9 2.87 8 4.02 5 2.61 7
10 Encouragement
form NGO 2.44 5 1.58 10 1.75 10 2.44 9
There are various sources of motivation for women to contest for election like
husband, children, brother/s, sister/s, relatives, villagers, political parties, self- help
groups, and NGOs. Table 4.3.1 indicates that villagers‟ motivation occupies the first
rank in Gundlupet, Kollegal, and Yalandur. But in Chamarajanagara the villagers‟
motivation occupies second rank whereas husbands‟ motivation plays (rank one) an
important role. At the same time in Gundlupet, Kollegal, and Yalandur, villagers
occupies second rank to motivate the women member to contest in the Grama
Panchayat election.
Table 4.3.1 also indicates that, relatives ranked 3rd
place in Chamarajanagara,
Gundlupet, and Kollegal taluk. But in Yalandur it had been pushed to the 4th
rank. At
the same time, self motivation occupied 3rd
rank in Yalandur taluk and was pushed to
the 8th
rank in Chamarajanagara, 9th
rank in Gundlupet, and 7th
rank in Kollegal.
Children occupied 4th
rank in Chamarajanagara and Gundlupet, but ranked 8th
in
Kollegal and Yalandur.
Another remarkable thing is seen in Table 4.3.1. In Chamarajanagara, political
party has occupied 10th
rank as the motivation factor whereas in Gundlupet, Kollegal,
and Yalandur it occupies 7th
, 4th
, and 6th
rank, respectively.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
88
Motivation is an important factor in the respondents‟ political life. Most of the
women have joined politics due to the force of others. Few of them joined politics
with self interest as a motivating factor which is indicated clearly in
Chamarajanagara, Gundlupet, and Kollegal ranking 8th
, 9th
and 7th
rank, respectively.
Only Yalandur has occupied 3rd
rank with respect to self motivation.
Even though the 73rd
constitutional amendment has given women the chance
to contest the Grama Panchayat elections and serve the locality, women have not
shown much interest. There were lots of motivational factors in play which made
women to contest the Grama Panchayat elections. It is very clear that in a traditional
Indian family woman cannot take decision individually which makes its impact on
women‟s political participation. It has to be a family decision whether a woman can
take part in politics or not
Table No. 4.3.2 : Awareness Regarding GP before Becoming a Member
Awareness
Chamarajanagar
a Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
All the Activity of GP 10(22.2) 00 02(04.4) 01(05.6)
Village Development Programmes 06(13.3) 01(02.6) 00 05(27.8)
About Grama Sabha 00 02(05.1) 00 00
Don‟t know 00 00 00 00
About Samithi 00 00 00 00
Not Applicable 29(64.4) 36(92.3) 43(95.6) 12(66.7)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Reasons Reason for not knowing
Because of illiteracy 04(08.9) 00 06(13.3) 00
Not gone out of the home 05(11.1) 09(23.1) 14(31.1) 09(50.0)
Lack of awareness 01(02.2) 00 00 03(16.7)
Not interested 19 (42.2) 24(61.5) 21(46.7) 00
Don‟t know 00 00 00 00
Not made an effort 00 03(07.7) 02(02.2) 00
Not applicable 16 (35.5) 03(07.7) 02(04.4) 06(33.3)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
89
Table 4.3.2 indicates that a large majority of the elected women
representatives are not familiar with the Grama Panchayat activities. The reasons
quoted are also quite interesting. Most of them never got the chance to go out of the
family and some of the elected members expressed that earlier they were not
interested to contest the election, while others said that they had not made an effort to
know about the Grama Panchayat and its activities.
Majority of the respondents did not have any knowledge about the Grama
Panchayat prior to their membership in the Grama Panchayat and also acknowledged
to a lack of interest. As far as Yalandur taluk is concerned, majority (50%) of the
respondents mentioned that they did not go out of the home which means that they
were restricting themselves to household activities. It is interesting to note that the
women who were not stepping out of their house for various other reasons had taken
interest in to entering local politics.
Table No. 4.3.3 : Reasons for Contesting Grama Panchayat Election
Reasons
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
For village development 12(26.7) 17(43.6) 36(80.0) 06(33.3)
Service to the people 03(06.7) 05(12.8) 05(11.1) 10(55.6)
Husband‟s force 04(08.9) 01(02.6) 01(02.2) 02(11.1)
Because of reservation 11(24.4) 06(15.4) 02(04.4) 00(0)
Political party force 01(02.2) 00(0) 01(02.2) 00(0)
Villagers force 04(08.9) 09(23.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Don‟t know 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Self- interest 06(13.3) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Family members force 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Forced by SHG member 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
It is evident from Table 4.3.3 that the respondents had different reasons to
contest the Grama Panchayat elections, except one respondent who was not aware as
to why she has contested the election. Majority of the (Kollegal 80%, Gundlupet
43.6%, Yalandur 33.3%, and Chamarajanagara 26.7%) respondents expressed that
they contested the election to develop their village. Only two respondents (4.4%) of
Data Analysis and Interpretation
90
Chamarajanagara mentioned that family members forced them to contest the election.
Some of the respondents also said that their husbands forced them to contest election
(Chamarajanagara 8.9%, Gundlupet 2.6%, Kollegal 2.2%, and Yalandur 11.1%). The
respondents of Chamarajanagara and Gundlupet reported that the village community
had pressurized them to contest the election. Political party interference was very low
because only two members of the total mentioned that they were forced by political
parties to contest for election. A good number of respondents mentioned that due to
the reservation policy they contested the election (Chamarajanagara 24.4%,
Gundlupet 15.4%, and Kollegal 4.4%).
Table No. 4.3.4 : Source of Information About Grama Panchayat Activities
Source of information
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Political Party 03(06.7) 04(10.3) 05(11.1) 02(11.1)
Villagers 01(02.2) 00(0) 02(04.4) 00(0)
SHG 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 07(38.9)
Grama Panchayat 02(04.4) 07(17.9) 00(0) 04(22.2)
Grama Sabha 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Training 34(75.6) 24(61.5) 38(84.4) 03(16.7)
Husband 05(11.1) 01(02.6) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Through reading 00(0) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Worked as a clerk in GP 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Son 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Table 4.3.4 presents information regarding the sources of information about
the Grama Panchayat and its activities. Majority of the respondents from
Chamarajanagara (75.6%), Gundlupet (61.5%), and Kollegal (84.4%) mentioned that
they received information about the Grama Panchayat during training. Other sources
of information were very less. From this it is clear that training plays a vital role in
creating awareness. Training is crucial for newly elected members as it is about
gathering information and acquiring knowledge.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
91
Table No. 4.3.5 : Family Members Served as Grama Panchayat Members
Family member
served as GP
member
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Not at all 37(82.2) 33(84.6) 42(93.3) 12(66.7)
Husband 04(08.9) 00(0) 02(04.4) 02(11.1)
Father-in-law 03(06.7) 02(05.1) 00(0) 02(11.1)
Mother 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Son- in- law 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Uncle 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.2) 00(0)
Father 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Brother 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 02(11.1)
Son 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Brother- in- law 00(0) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Grandmother 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Co-brother 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
It is evident from the above data that the majority of the respondents‟ family
members did not serve as a Grama Panchayat member. In Chamarajanagara taluk,
17.8% of the respondent‟s family members served as Grama Panchayat members. Of
that 8.9% of the respondents said that their husband were members, 6.7% said that
their fathers-in-law was serving as a member, 2.2% the respondents said that their co-
brothers were members of the Grama Panchayat. In Gundlupet taluk, 15.4% of the
respondents reported that their family members served as a Grama Panchayat
member, of that 5.1% of the respondents mentioned that their fathers-in-law served as
Panchayat member, an equal percentage (2.6%) of the respondents said that a brother
or son was the Grama Panchayat member, respectively. Rest of the (5.1%)
respondents mentioned that their brothers-in-law were Grama Panchayat members.
As far as Kollegal taluk is concerned, 6.6% of the respondents said that their family
members served as Panchayat members, that is, their husbands‟ (4.4%) and uncles
(2.2%). In Yalandur taluk, 33.3% of the respondent‟s family members were Grama
Panchayat members of which 11.1% respondents said husband, 11.1% of the
respondents mentioned fathers-in-law, and the remaining 11.1% reported that brothers
were members of the Grama Panchayat.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
92
Table No. 4.3.6 : Opponent in the Election
Opponent in the
election
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Male 12(26.7) 07(17.9) 05(11.1) 01(05.6)
Female 30(66.7) 32(82.1) 40(88.9) 17(94.4)
Unanimous selection 03(06.7) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Women members were asked about their opponent in the election. Majority of
the women members‟ opponent in the election were females (Chamarajanagara
66.7%, Gundlupet 82.1%, Kollegal 88.9%, and Yalandur 94.4%). Only three (6.7%)
respondents of Chamarajanagara taluk were unanimously elected.
Figure – 2 : Women Members Opinion towards Present Election System of the
Grama Panchayat
17 (37.8)
4(8.9)
20 (44.4)
3 (6.7)
1 (2.2)
10(25.6)
2 (5.1)
27 (69.2)
0
0
18(40)
16 (35.6)
3 (6.7)
4(8.9)
4(8.9)
2(11.1)
7 (38.9)
9 (50)
0
0
Very good system
Good
Present system accepted
Number of changes are required
The present system is not good
Yalandur Kollegal Gundlupet Chamarajanagar
Data Analysis and Interpretation
93
The data from Figure 2 provides almost an equally distributive response from
different categories. In Chamarajanagara (44.4%), Gundlupet (69.2%), and Yalandur
(50%) majority of the women accepted the present system of election. Whereas, a
majority of the women of Kollegal (40%) taluk reported that the present election
system was good. Only 2.2% women in Chamarajanagara and 8.9% of women of
Kollegal mentioned that the present system of election was not good.
Table No. 4.3.7 : Reaction of the Family Members and Friends towards your
Decision to Become a Panchayat Member
Reactions
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
N = 45 N = 39 N = 45 N = 18
Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank
Parents 3.26 2 3.23 7 3.24 4 3.44 8
In-laws 1.95 8 2.43 8 2.97 7 4.33 2
Spouse 4.26 1 4.10 1 4.66 1 4.61 1
Siblings 2.46 6 3.38 5 2.95 8 3.83 5.5
Children 2.86 4 3.25 6 3.13 5 3.88 4
Friends 2.55 5 3.64 2.5 3.11 6 4.00 3
Relatives 2.91 3 3.61 4 4.05 2 3.83 5.5
Neighbours 3.26 7 3.64 2.5 3.42 3 3.77 7
Frequency X value/5scale = Score
Table 4.3.7 depicts the information on the reaction of family members and
friends towards the respondent‟s decision to become a Panchayat member. This
question was asked with a five scale ranking like very much encouraged, encouraged,
neutral, discouraged, and no opinion starting from 05 to 01 grade. Family and friends
included parents, in-laws, spouse, siblings, children, friends, relatives, and
neighbours. Perceptions of the respondents were able to assess the reaction of the each
one of the family members and friends. In Chamarajanagara taluk, the spouse‟s
encouragement scored 4.26 thereby obtaining first rank, followed by parents scoring
3.26 obtaining the 2nd
rank. In Gundlupet taluk, the spouse had scored 4.3.7 and
obtained first rank, followed by neighbours scoring 3.26 and obtaining the 2nd
rank. In
Kollegal taluk, the spouse had scored 4.66 and obtained first rank followed by
relatives scoring 4.05 and obtaining 2rd rank. At the same time in Yalandur taluk, the
spouse had scored 4.61 and obtained first rank followed by in-laws.
Table 4.3.7 reveals information on the varied reaction of family and friends. In
all four taluks the spouse stood first, followed by friends and relatives.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
94
In conclusion, Table 4.3.7 speaks about the reaction of family and family
members. All respondents had given importance to spouse rather than to more
dominating relationships like siblings, parents, and children. This also indicates the
bond between the husband and wife. It shows the strong support by the husband for
the growth of the women in politics. This can be viewed as a very good development
in a country like India.
4.4 : The Problems and Difficulties Experienced by the Elected Women
Representatives in Relation to their Role.
Table No. 4.4.1 : Problems Faced in the Grama Panchayats
Problems
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Problems
faced in
the Grama
Panchayat
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
Non co-
operation
by male
member
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
Non co-
operation
by the
secretary
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
Not
informing
meeting
agenda in
advance
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
01
(2.6)
38
(97.4)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
02
(11.1)
16
(88.9)
18
(100)
Protocol
respect
was not
given
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100) 00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
Late
notice for
the
meeting
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100) 00
04
(8.9)
41
(91.1)
45
(100)
00
(0)
18
(100)
18
(100)
These were the common problems listed while conducting focused group
discussions, which is usually faced by the elected women representatives in the
Grama Panchayat like non co-operation by male members, secretary, not informing
about the meeting, and late notice. Table 4.4.1 depicts the information about the types
of problems faced by women in relation to their role as members.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
95
Majority of the respondents did not face much problem in the Grama Panchayat.
It is significant to note that no women member covered in Chamarajanagara taluk faced
problems in the Panchayat. The women who have faced any problems mentioned only
two types that is not informing regarding meeting agenda in advance (Gundlupet 2.6%
and Yalandur 11.1%) and late notice for the meeting (Kollegal 8.9%).
Table No. 4.4.2 : Efforts Made to Settle the Problems Faced in the
Grama Panchayat
Type of
problems faced
in the Gram
Panchayat
Effort made to
settle the problems
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Effort made to
settle the Non
co-operation by
male members
Not applicable 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Collective effort of
women members
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
Total 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Effort made to
settle the non co-
operation of the
secretary
Not applicable 44
(97.8)
37
(94.9)
43
(95.6)
18
(100)
Discussed with
CEO and changed
the secretary
01
(02.2)
02
(05.1)
02
(04.4)
00
(0)
Total 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Effort made to
settle the
problem of not
informing
meeting agenda
in advance
Not applicable 45
(100)
38
(97.4)
45
(100)
16
(88.9)
Discussed in the
meeting and settled
the problem
00
(0)
01
(02.6)
00
(0)
02
(11.1)
Total 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Effort made to
settle the
problem of not
giving Protocol
respect
Not applicable 45
(100)
39
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Discussion in the
Grama Panchayat
meeting
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
Total 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Efforts made to
settle the
problem of
giving late notice
for the meeting
Not applicable 45
(100)
39
(100)
41
(91.1)
18
(100)
Discussed with
secretary and
president of GP
00
(0)
00
(0)
04
(08.9)
00
(0)
Total 45
(100)
35
(100)
45
(100)
18
(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
96
It is evident from Table 4.4.2 that a majority of the women did not face any
problem in the Panchayat. The women who had problems made some efforts to settle
the problem. With regard to settling the problem of not informing meeting agenda in
advance, the women discussed the issue in the meeting and solved the problem. As
far as solving the problem of giving late notice for the meeting is concerned they
discussed it with the secretary and president of the GP. It indicates that women had
taken the initiative to settle the problems using their own initiative as members.
Table No. 4.4.3 : Problems Faced by the Respondents
Types of
problems
faced
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Attending
Grama
Panchayat
meeting
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
02
(11.1)
16
(88.9)
18
(100)
Election
canvassing
01
(2.2)
44
(97.8)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
02
(11.1)
16
(88.9)
18
(100)
Attending
Training
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
03
(16.7)
15
(83.3)
18
(100)
Attending
Programme
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
00
(0)
45
(100)
45
(100)
03
(16.7)
15
(83.3)
18
(100)
To visit the
ward
02
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
00
(0)
39
(100)
39
(100)
2
(4.4)
43
(95.6)
45
(100)
02
(11.1)
16
(88.9)
18
(100)
Table 4.4.3 presents information about the problems faced by women in
relation to activities like attending Grama Panchayat meetings, election canvassing,
attending training, attending programme, and to visit places. It is significant to note
that a majority of the women members reported that they did not had problem in
implementing any of the activities. Few of the women mentioned that they had
problems in attending the Grama Panchayat meetings, that is, 2.2% in
Chamarajanagara and 11.1% in Yalandur. As far as election canvassing is concerned,
2.2% in Chamarajanagara, 4.4% in Kollegal and 11.1% in Yalandur taluk mentioned
that they had a problem. To visit the ward, majority of the respondents did not have
any problem and the percentage of respondents having any problem to visit the ward
are also low, that is, Chamarajanagara 4.4%, Kollegal 4.4%, and Yalandur 11.1%.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
97
Table No. 4.4.4 : Problems Faced by the Respondents From the GP Staff
To manage the
Panchayat activity
-problems faced from
GP staff
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No Problem 43 (95.6) 38(97.4) 45(100) 13(72.2)
Non co-operation by
the secretary 01(02.2) 01(02.6) 00(0) 05(27.8)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Table 4.4.4 tabulates information about the problems faced by the women
members to conduct any programme in the ward. Majority of them reported that they
did not face any problem. Few of the respondents of Chamarajanagara (2.2%),
Gundlupet (2.6%), and Yalandur (27.8%) taluks did not get co-operation from the
secretary. In certain cases it is noticed that the Panchayat secretaries did not extend
co-operation to the elected women representatives.
Table 4.4.5 presents information about the different positions held by women
members. It is evident from the above information that majority of the women
members were members of the GP. A majority of them completed five years
(Chamarajanagara 95.6%, Gundlupet 100%, and Kollegal 100%). No woman
member of Chamarajanagara has been a Standing Committee member or a Standing
Committee President. As far as the position of being a GP President there were
representations from all the four taluks. In Yalandur taluk some of the women under
study had been the Vice President of the GP. It is significant to note that except for
one member of the Yalandur taluk no other woman has been the GP representative to
the Taluk Panchayat. Representation to the ZP from the GP is also very low.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
98
Table No. 4.4.5 : Positions Held and Tenure of the Respondents
Positions Number of
years
Chamarajanaga
ra Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Member
One Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Two Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Five Year 43(95.6) 39(100) 45(100) 17(94.4)
10 year 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
15 year 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Standing
Committee
Member
Not at all 45(100) 35(89.7) 44(97.8) 14 (77.8)
One Year 00(0) 04(10.3) 01(02.2) 00(0)
Two Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Three year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 03(16.7)
Four Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Five Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Standing
Committee
President
Not at all 45(100) 37(94.9) 41(91.1) 13(72.2)
One Year 00(0) 02(05.1) 04(08.9) 00(0)
Two Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 04(22.2)
Three year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Four Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Grama
Panchyat
President
Not at all 36(80) 29(74.4) 39(86.7) 14(77.8)
One Year 01(02.2) 03(07.7) 00(0) 01(05.6)
15 month 00(0) 02 (05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Two and
half Year 08(17.8) 05(12.8) 06(13.3) 03(16.7)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Vice
President
Not at all 38 (84.4) 27(69.2) 45(100) 15(83.3)
one year 02(04.4) 03(07.7) 00(0) 02(11.1)
two year 05(11.1) 09 (23.1) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Total 45(100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Grama
Panchayat
representativ
e
in Taluk
Panchayat
Not at all 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 17(94.4)
One Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Two Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45(100) 18 (100)
Grama
Panchayat
representativ
e in Zilla
Panchayat
Not at all 45(100) 38(97.4) 45(100) 17(94.4)
One Year 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Two Year 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
99
Table No. 4.4.6 : Ability to manage their positions in the Grama Panchayats
Position Level of
Management
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Member
Very good 05 (11.1) 09 (23.1) 05 (11.1) 03 (16.7)
Good 25 (55.6) 12 (30.8) 39 (86.7) 05 (27.8)
Satisfactory 10 (22.2) 12 (30.8) 01 (2.2) 08 (44.4)
Poor 05 (11.1) 05 (12.8) 00(0) 02 (11.1)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 00(0) 01 (2.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Standing
Committee
member
Very good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Good 00(0) 04(10.3) 01(02.2) 02(11.1)
Satisfactory 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 44(97.8) 35(89.7) 44(97.8) 14(77.8)
Total 45(100) 39 (100) 45(100) 18(100)
Standing
Committee
President
Very good 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 02(11.1)
Good 01(02.2) 00(0) 04(08.9) 02(11.1)
Satisfactory 01(02.2) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 43(95.6) 36(92.3) 41(91.1) 14(77.8)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
GP President
Very good 01(02.2) 06(15.4) 01(02.2) 07(38.9)
Good 05(11.1) 02(05.1) 04(08.9) 01(05.6)
Satisfactory 01(02.2) 03(07.7) 01(02.2) 00(0)
Poor 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 37(82.2) 28(71.8) 39 (86.7) 10(55.6)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Vice President
Very good 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 02(11.1)
Good 05(11.1) 03(07.7) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Satisfactory 02(04.4) 05(12.8) 00(0) 00(0)
Poor 00(0) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 38(84.4) 29(74.4) 45(100) 15(83.3)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
GP
Representative
in TP
Very good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 01(05.6)
Good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Satisfactory 02(04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 43(95.6) 39(100) 45(100) 17(94.4)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
GP
Representative
in ZP
Very good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 02(11.1)
Good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Satisfactory 01(02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 44(97.8) 39(100) 45(100) 16(88.9)
Total 45(100) 39(100) 45(100) 18(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
100
Questions were asked of the women members regarding the extent to which
they could manage their positions. As for as the positions of women members were
concerned, a majority of them said that they could manage the responsibility as
member in a good way. The women who were Committee members also reported
that they could manage their positions in a good manner. With regard to the position
of the Committee President is concerned, a good number of them could manage in a
good way and a few of them were very good in managing their positions. In relation
to managing the position of the Grama Panchayat President, majority of them could
manage their positions either satisfactorily or very good. But one respondent told that
she was poor in managing her position.
The data also depicts that many of them had not got the chance to hold
positions like Committee members, Committee President, President of the GP, Vice
President of the GP, Representation to TP and ZP from the Grama Panchayat. It
indicates that the Constitution has made provisions for women to become a member
of the Grama Panchayat, but it had not made any policy for creamy layer reservation
to occupy the different positions in the Grama Panchayat, except as President and
Vice President.
Table No. 4.4.7 : Social status increased after becoming a GP member
Social status increased
after becoming
Grama Panchayat
member
Chamarajanagar
a Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 26(57.8) 30(76.9) 15(33.3) 14(77.8)
No 19(42.2) 09(23.1) 30(66.7) 04 (22.2)
Total 45(100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
It is natural that when one gets a position his/her social status increases. Since
a member of the Grama Panchayat represents her village, her status increases
automatically. It is significant to note that only in the two taluks of Chamarajanagara
district, that is, Yalandur (77.8%) and Gundlupet (76.9%) that a majority of the
women members mentioned that their social status had increased. The percentage
was not satisfactory in Chamarajanagara (57.8%) and Kollegal (33.3%) taluk.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
101
Table No. 4.4.8 : Male co-member’s outlook towards women members
Male co-member’s
outlook towards women
members
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
Respondents
(%)
No. of
Respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Very good co-operation 06 (13.3) 15 (38.5) 13 (28.9) 03(16.7)
Co-operative 37 (82.2) 24 (61.5) 32(71.1) 15(83.3)
Natural 02 (04.4) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Neglected 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
In a country like India, which is a male dominant society, the outlook of men
towards women is not very positive. It is interesting to note that a majority of the
respondents reported that the men are co-operative. The percentage is high in
Yalandur (83.3%) followed by Chamarajanagara (82.2%), Kollegal (71.1%), and
Gundlupet (61.5%). No respondent had said that they were neglected by the male co-
members.
Table No. 4.4.9 : Elected women able to exercise their legitimate power
Able to exercise
legitimate power
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 41(91.1) 30(76.9) 33(73.3) 09(50)
Sometimes 03(06.7) 07(17.9) 11(24.4) 09(50)
No 01(02.2) 02(05.1) 01(02.2) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Based on the information given in the Table 4.4.9, it is clear that a majority of
the women members in Chamarajanagara taluk (91.9%) followed by Gundlupet
(76.9%), Kollegal (73.3%), and Yalandur (50%) taluk were able to exercise their
legitimate authority.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
102
Table No. 4.4.10 : Reasons for their inability to exercise their legitimate power
Reasons for not able to
exercise their legitimate
power
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Not applicable 44 (97.8) 36 (92.3) 45(100) 18(100)
All the members do not agree
with our opinion 00(0) 01 (02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
Not much aware about
Panchayat procedure 00(0) 02 (05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Son takes care of all the work 01 (02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Non co-operation 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Table 4.4.10 presents data on the reasons for the respondent‟s inability to
exercise their legitimate authority. On the whole, only one (2.2%) respondent
mentioned that her son takes care of all the work. Though the percentage is low it
cannot be neglected because this shows how the male members of the family make
the women superficial. Most of the time women are also comfortable being in this
position because they do not get to think much about their work. Other reasons
quoted were that all the members do not agree with their opinion and they do not
know much about the Panchayat procedures. Hence, they find it very difficult to
exercise their authority. Knowledge, skill, and awareness play a major role in
boosting their confidence. Generally, people find it difficult to make decisions and
depend on others when they lack confidence.
4.5 : To study the strategies adopted by the elected women representatives in
implementing development programames.
Table No. 4.5.1 : Availability of guidance from the Panchayat officials
Availability of
guidance from the
officials
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 43 (95.6) 39 (100) 41 (91.1) 18 (100)
No 01 (02.2) 00(0) 04 (08.9) 00(0)
Sometimes 01 (02.2) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
All women were posititive that they got guidance from the Panchayat officials,
especially the women from Gundlupet and Yalandur.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
103
Table No. 4.5.2 : Weightage given by the co-members to respondent’s suggestions
Co-members consider
respondent’s suggestions
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 36 (80) 34 (87.2) 32 (71.1) 10 (55.6)
Sometimes 08 (17.8) 03 (07.7) 10 (22.2) 08 (44.4)
Not at all 01 (02.2) 02 (05.1) 03 (06.7) 00(0)
TOTAL 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Majority of the women members reported that their suggestions are considered
(Gundlupet 87.2%, Chamarajanagara 80%, Kollegal 71.1%, and Yalandur 55.6%).
Few of the women mentioned that their opinions were not considered at all. Though
the percentage is low it cannot be underestimated.
Table No. 4.5.3 : Attending Grama Panchayat Meetings
Attend
Grama Panchayat
meetings
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 42 (93.3) 37 (94.9) 39 (86.7) 18 (100)
Sometimes 03 (06.7) 02 (05.1) 06 (13.3) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
From Table 4.5.3, it is clear that the majority of the respondents regularly
attend the Panchayat meetings. The percentage is high in Yalandur (100%) followed
by Gundlupet (94.9%), Chamarajanagara (93.3%), and Kollegal (86.7%).
Table No. 4.5.3 : Active participation in the meeting
Active
Participation
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 39 (86.7) 31 (79.5) 29 (64.4) 08 (44.4)
Sometimes 4 (08.9) 04 (10.3) 14 (31.1) 10 (55.6)
No 2 (04.4) 04 (10.3) 02 (04.4) 0
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
The above table shows that women members consider their participation in the
meeting in a positive manner. Majority of the respondents, that is, Chamarajanagara-
86.7% followed by Gundlupet-79.5%, and Kollegal- 64.4% mentioned that they actively
participate in the meetings. Mere attendance in the meeting is not enough; they need to
effectively take part in the discussion. Only then can they have their separate identity.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
104
Table No. 4.5.4 : Programmes implemented in the ward
Programmes
implemented in the
ward
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents
(%)
No. of
Respondents
(%)
No. of
Respondents
(%)
N=45 (100) N=39 (100) N=45 (100) N=18 (100)
Housing
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Number 20 25 45 32 7 39 11 34 45 0 18 18
Percentage 44.4 55.6 100 82.1 17.9 100 24.4 75.6 100 0 100 100
Drainage Number 14 31 45 18 21 39 7 38 45 0 18 18
Percentage 31.1 68.9 100 46.2 53.8 100 15.6 84.4 100 0 100 100
Village
sanitation
programme
Number 10 35 45 15 24 39 15 30 45 12 6 18
Percentage 22.2 77.8 100 38.5 61.5 100 33.3 66.7 100 66.7 33.3 100
Village
cleaning
programme
Number 3 42 45 3 36 39 9 36 45 9 9 18
Percentage 6.7 93.3 100 7.7 92.3 100 20.0 80.0 100 50 50 100
Primary
Health
Center
Number 0 0 45 5 34 39 0 45 45 0 18 18
Percentage 0 0 100 12.8 87.2 100 0 100 100 0 100 100
Bus Stand Number 1 44 45 1 38 39 0 45 45 0 18 18
Percentage 2.2 97.8 100 2.6 97.4 100 0 100 100 0 100 100
Road Light Number 15 30 45 27 12 39 22 23 45 13 5 18
Percentage 33.3 66.7 100 69.2 30.8 100 48.9 51.1 100 72.2 27.8 100
Road Repair Number 17 28 45 19 20 39 17 28 45 7 11 18
Percentage 37.8 62.2 100 48.7 51.3 100 37.8 62.2 100 38.9 61.1 100
Electricity -
Housing
Number 13 32 45 13 26 39 4 41 45 4 14 18
Percentage 28.9 71.1 100 33.3 66.7 100 8.9 91.1 100 22.2 77.8 100
Small
Bridge
Number 1 44 45 6 33 39 1 44 45 0 18 18
Percentage 2.2 97.8 100 15.4 84.6 100 2.2 97.8 100 0 100 100
Anganawadi Number 1 44 45 2 37 39 0 45 45 2 16 18
Percentage 2.2 97.8 100 5.1 94.9 100 0 100 100 11.1 88.9 100
Water Number 24 21 45 34 5 39 34 11 45 6 12 18
Percentage 53.3 46.7 100 87.2 12.8 100 75.6 24.4 100 33.3 66.2 100
Literacy Number 2 43 45 0 39 39 0 45 45 9 9 18
Percentage 4.4 95.6 100 0 100 100 0 100 100 50 50 100
School
building
Number 3 42 45 3 36 39 0 45 45 0 18 18
Percentage 6.7 93.3 100 7.7 92.3 100 0 100 100 0 100 100
Farm Pond Number 1 44 45 3 36 39 0 45 45 0 18 18
Percentage 2.2 97.8 100 7.7 92.3 100 0 100 100 0 100 100
Tank De-
silting
Number 8 36 45 3 36 39 0 45 45 2 16 18
Percentage 17.8 80.0 100 7.7 92.3 100 0 100 100 11.1 88.9 100
Subsidy to
SHG
Number 1 44 45 0 39 39 0 100 45 0 18 18
Percentage 2.2 97.8 100 0 100 0 100 100 0 100 100
Data Analysis and Interpretation
105
It is evident from the above table that various programmes were implemented
by the women members in their ward. The programmes that were implemented
include construction of bus stand, housing, drainage, road light, village sanitation
programme, primary health center, road repair, anganwadi, water supply, electricity,
literacy, small bridge, farm pond, tank de-silting, school building, and subsidy to Self
Help Groups. A good number of the women members had implemented water,
housing, village sanitation, and road repair programmes as compared to other
programmes. Though the percentage of women implementing any programme is low,
a majority of the programmes mentioned in the 11th
Schedule of the Constitution had
been implemented.
Table No. 4.5.5 : Visit to the ward
Visiting their
(representative) ward
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Every day 24(53.3) 30 (76.9) 04(08.9) 01(05.6)
Once in a week 13(28.9) 06(15.4) 04(08.9) 01(05.6)
Every fifteen days 03(06.7) 00 00 01(05.6)
Once in a month 05(11.1) 03(07.7) 22(48.9) 13(72.2)
Once in six months 00 00 08(17.8) 02(11.1)
Once in a year 00 00 06(13.3) 00
Never visit 00 00 01(02.2) 00
People are coming to
my home. 00 00 00 00
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Table 4.5.5 provides data on how often the women members of the Panchayat
visit their ward. As far as Chamarajanagara (53.3%) and Gundlupet (76.9%) taluks
are concerned, majority of the women members reported that they visit their ward
every day. A good number (49.9%) of the women members of Kollegal taluk visit
their ward once in a month and in Yalandur taluk also, a majority (72.2%) attend their
ward once in a month. Only a few members of the Kollegal taluk visit the ward once
in six months and one respondent never visits the ward which is not a good sign in
grassroot politics.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
106
Table No. 4.5.6 : Response received in the meetings
Response in the
meetings
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 42(93.3) 39(100.0) 43(95.6) 15(83.3)
No 03(06.7) 00(0) 02(04.4) 03(16.7)
Sometimes 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Never asked the questions 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
In a country like India which is a male dominated society, not much
importance is given to women being heard. It is significant to note that when the
women were asked whether they get a good response when they ask questions in the
meeting, a majority of the respondents mentioned that they get a good response,
which is appreciable.
Table No. 4.5.7 : Regularity in the ward meetings
Regular ward
meetings
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 32(71.1) 36(92.3) 37 (82.2) 13(72.2)
No 13(28.9) 03(07.7) 08 (17.7) 05(27.8)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
It is evident from the above table that majority of the women members
conduct ward meetings regularly. The percentage is higher in Chamarajanagara taluk
(92.3%). Regular conduct of ward meetings is crucial for the development of any
ward. It is positive to note that majority of the women members are taking an interest
in conducting ward meetings.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
107
Table No. 4.5.8 : Number of members attending Grama Sabha meeting
Number of members
attending Grama
Sabha meetings
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Less than 100 17(37.8) 05(12.8) 16(35.5) 05(27.8)
100 11(24.4) 13(33.3) 03(06.7) 08(44.5)
150 02(04.4) 04(10.3) 10(22.2) 02(11.1)
200 09(20.0) 07(17.9) 13(28.9) 01(05.5)
300 01(02.2) 06(15.4) 01(02.2) 02(11.1)
350 01(02.2) 01(02.6) 00(0) 00(0)
400 and above 04(08.9) 03(07.7) 02(04.4) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Women members were asked about the number of members who attend the
Grama Sabha meeting in order to understand their awareness level regarding people
participation in the Grama Sabha. In Chamarajanagara taluk 37.8% of the
respondents mentioned that there will be less than 100 members at the Grama Sabha
meeting, and 33.3% of the respondents in Gundlupet taluk also said that there will be
100 members, whereas in Kollegal, 35.5% of the respondents reported that there will
be less than 100 members while in Yalandur taluk, 44.5% expressed that there will be
around 100 members at the Grama Sabha meeting. It is clear from the above data that
usually there will be around 100 participants in Grama Sabha meeting.
Table No. 4.5.9 : Opinion of respondents regarding 33% reservation in Panchayat
Required reservation
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Present reservation is enough 04(08.9) 04(10.3) 04(08.9) 00(0)
45% 03(06.6) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
50% 38(84.5) 35(89.7) 41(91.1) 18(100)
75% 00(0) 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Is 33% reservation enough or not, is questionable. When women members
were asked about whether 33% reservation seems enough, a majority of them claimed
that it is not enough. It is positive to note that women at the grassroot level are
becoming aware about such issues.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
108
It is understood from the above data that a majority of the respondents in all
the four taluks of Chamarajanagara district reported that they need 50% reservation in
Panchayats. No respondent had asked for more than 50% or reservation of seats. From
this it was evident that they were becoming rational and critical in their thinking.
Table No. 4.5.10 : Reasons for not contesting the next election
Reasons
Chamarajanagara Gundlupet Kollegal Yalandur
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Contesting for
next election 32(71.1) 31(79.5) 40(88.9) 13(72.2)
household work 03 (07.0) 01(02.6) 05(11.1) 02(11.1)
Family problems 04(08.6) 02(05.1) 00(0) 03(16.7)
To give
opportunity to
others
06 (13.3) 03(07.7) 00(0) 00(0)
job(work) pressure 00(0) 02(05.1) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 45 (100) 39 (100) 45 (100) 18 (100)
Table 4.5.10 provides information on whether the women members were
interested to contest the next Panchayat election. It is significant to note that a
majority of the women members were interested to contest for the next Panchayat
election. The confidence gained during their tenure might have made them want to
again contest the next election.
A question was asked of those women members who did not want to contest
the next election on the reason for it. A good number (16.7%) expressed that due to
family problems they were not interested in contesting the next election. Rest of the
women members cited household activity, to provide opportunity for others, and job
pressure as the reasons for not contesting in next Panchayat election.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
109
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF UDUPI
DISTRICT
5.1 : Profile of Elected Women Representatives in the Grama Panchayats.
Table No. 5.1.1 : Age of respondents
Age of the
respondents
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
21-25 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 0(0)
26-30 03(07.1) 06(11.8) 05(10.4)
31-35 02(04.8) 09(17.6) 08(16.7)
36-40 09(21.4) 10(19.6) 08(16.7)
41-45 09(21.4) 08(15.7) 11(22.9)
46-50 05(11.9) 08(15.7) 07(14.6)
51-55 05(11.9) 03(05.9) 07(14.6)
56-60 07(16.7) 05(09.8) 02(04.2)
61 -65 01(02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
Mean 45.85 40.54 41.75
SD 10.365 9.51 8.385
Table 5.1.1 provides data of the age of the respondents. As far as the age
distribution of the respondents is concerned, in Karkala taluk, 42.8% of the
respondents fell in the age group of 36 to 45 years, followed by 11.9% between the
age category of 46 to 50 years, 11.9% between 51 to 55 years, 16.7% between 56 to
60 years, and only 2.4% between 61 to 65 years. It was significant to note that 2.4%
respondent fall in the age group of 21 to 25 years. As far as Kundapura taluk was
concerned, majority, 19.6% of the respondents fell in the age group of 36 to 40 years,
followed by 15.7% between 41 to 45 years, 15.7% between 46 to 50 years, 17.6%
between 31 to 35 years, and 11.8% between 26 to 30 years. No respondent was above
60 years of age. In Udupi taluk, the table reveals that 22.9% of the respondents
belonged to 41 to 45 years of age group. Of the total sample, it is significant to note
that the majority of the respondents belonged to the middle aged group.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
110
Table No. 5.1.2: Education of respondents
Education
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Non-Literate 0(0) 11(21.6) 02(04.2)
Neo-Literate 06(14.3) 0(0) 01(02.1)
Pre-Primary 05(11.9) 10(19.6) 04(08.3)
Primary 09(21.4) 13(25.5) 11(22.9)
High School 12(28.6) 09(17.6) 20(41.7)
PUC 10(23.8) 05(09.8) 07(14.6)
Degree 0(0) 03(05.9) 03(06.3)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
With regard to the educational qualification of the respondents, it was observed
that a majority of the respondents in Udupi district had primary and high school level of
education. In Karkala taluk, 28.6% studied up to high school and 21.4% studied up to
primary. In Kundapura taluk, 17.6% studied up to high school and 25.5% studied up to
primary and in Udupi taluk 41.7% studied up to high school and 22.9% studied up to
primary level. A greater percentage, 23.8% of the respondents in Karkala taluk studied
up to PUC followed by 14.6% in Udupi taluk, and 09.8% in Kundapura taluk. As far as
graduate respondents are concerned there were no graduate women members in Karkala
taluk covered under this study while it was 5.9% in Kundapura taluk and 6.3% in Udupi
taluk. In Karkala taluk, no member was illiterate of the 42 samples, whereas it was
21.6% in Kundapura taluk and 4.2% in Udupi taluk. Education is not a criteria to become
members of the Panchayat. Majority of the respondents covered under this study do not
have a sound educational background.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
111
Table No. 5.1.3 : Caste/category of respondents
Caste/Category*
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
SC 07(16.7) 06(11.8) 07(14.6)
ST 07(16.7) 06(11.8) 05(10.4)
Cat.-1 00(0) 07(13.7) 07(14.6)
Cat.-2A 16(38.1) 18(35.3) 18(37.5)
Cat.-2B 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Cat.-3A 00(0) 01(2.0) 04(08.3)
Cat.-3B 05(11.9) 09(17.6) 05(10.4)
General 07(16.7) 04(07.8) 02(04.2)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
*The specific castes under SC, ST, Cat. 1 - Cat. 3 B have been listed out in the annexure
As is evident from Table 5.1.3, a good number, i.e., 38.1% of the respondents
belonged to Category-2A in Karkala taluk, 35.1% in Kundapura taluk, and 37.5% in
Udupi taluk. No respondents under Category-1 were found in Karkala taluk. It is
evident from the data that the representation of general category was not satisfactory.
It was only 16.7% in Karkala, 07.8% in Kundapura, and 04.2%, in Udupi.
Table No. 5.1.4 : Marital status of respondents
Marital Status
Karkala Kundapur Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Married 37(88.1) 47(92.2) 45(93.8)
Unmarried 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 01(02.1)
Widow 04(09.5) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Separated 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Divorced 00(0) 00 (0) 00 (0)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
The data presented in Table 5.1.4 shows that in all the three taluks of the
district, majority of the elected women were found to be married. The percentage was
higher in Udupi taluk - 93.8% followed by Kundapur - 92.2%, and Karkala taluk -
88.1%. This indicates that probably after marriage they got support from their family.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
112
Table No. 5.1.5 : Nature of employment of the respondents
Employment
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Daily Wager 17 (40.5) 16(31.4) 12 (25.0)
Agricultural Labourer 06(14.3) 09(17.6) 01(02.1)
Homemaker 17(40.5) 19(37.3) 30(62.5)
Self- Employed 01(02.4) 05(09.8) 04(08.3)
Private job 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 00(0)
Animal Husbandry 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
As is evident in Table 5.1.5, majority of the respondents were housewives. The
percentage was higher in Udupi taluk - 62.5%, followed by Karkala taluk - 40.5%, and
Kundapura taluk - 37.3%. Very few women covered under this study were self- employed;
9.8% in Kundapura taluk followed by 8.3% in Udupi taluk, and 2.4% in Karkala.
Table No. 5.1.6 : Annual income of respondents’ family
Annual income of the
family
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
11000 and less 39(92.8) 35(68.6) 21(43.8)
11000 to 15000 02(04.8) 07(13.7) 06(12.5)
15001 to 20000 00(0) 03(05.9) 04(08.3)
20001 to 25000 00(0) 01(02.0) 05(12.5)
25001 to 30000 00(0) 00(0) 02(04.2)
30001 to 40000 00(0) 01(02.0) 03(06.3)
40001 to 50000 01(02.4) 02(04.0) 00(0)
50001 to 75000 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
75001 to 100000 00(0) 00(0) 03(06.3)
100001 to 200000 00(0) 01(02.0) 02(04.2)
200001 to 300000 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
113
Table 5.1.6 shows the annual income details of the respondent‟s family. Most
of the respondents mentioned that they were below the poverty line (Karkala taluk -
92.8%, Kundapur - 68.6%, and Udupi - 43.8%). The income also indicates the
standard of living of the respondents and their socio- economic status. Only in Udupi
taluk 55.2% were above the poverty line.
Table No. 5.1.7 : Size of family
Number of
family members
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
One 02(04.8) 00(0) 00(0)
Two 05(11.9) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Three 04(09.5) 03(05.9) 03(06.3)
Four 15(35.7) 15(29.4) 17(35.4)
Five 09(21.4) 09(17.6) 20(41.7)
Six 02(04.8) 11(21.6) 03(06.3)
Seven 03(07.1) 07(13.7) 02(04.2)
Eight 01(02.4) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Nine 01(02.4) 00 (0) 01(02.1)
Ten and above 00(0) 04(08.0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Mean 4.2 5.4 4.75
SD 6.9 6.6 8.9
Of the total 141 samples studied majority of the respondents had four
members in their family (35.7% in Karkala, 29.4% in Kundapura, and 35.7% in Udupi
taluk). While comparing all the three taluks, a good percentage of 41.7% respondents
in Udupi taluk had five members in their family, followed by 21.4% in Karkala, and
17.6% in Kundapura taluk. It is significant to note that only in Kundapura taluk, the
families consisted of 10 and above members. This was probably because majority of
the families in the taluk were agricultural based, some of the families were still
following the joint family system.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
114
Table No. 5.1.8 : Husbands’ education
Husbands’
Education
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Not applicable 05(11.9) 04(07.8) 03(06.3)
Not literate 06(14.3) 08(15.7) 01(02.1)
Neo-literate 00(0) 01(02.0) 00 (0)
Pre-primary 04(09.5) 02(03.9) 06(12.5)
Primary 09(21.4) 20(39.2) 12(25.0)
High School 10(23.8) 10(19.6) 14(29.2)
PUC 03(07.1) 02(03.9) 04(08.3)
Degree 05(11.9) 02(03.9) 07(14.6)
Technical education 00 (0) 02(03.9) 01(02.1)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
Table 5.1.8 indicates that majority of the respondents’ husbands had primary
level of education, namely, Kundapur - 39.2%, Udupi - 25%, and in Karkala 21.4%.
But it is important to note that the not literates percentage is less, that is, in Kundapur
15.7%, Karkala 14.3%, and in Udupi 2.1%. Education also influences the family
members to motivate the women to contest the election. At the same time voters also
analyzed their capacity to rule or administrate in the Grama Panchayat.
Figure – 3 : Type of family
Joint, 7.1 (03)
Joint, 23.5 (12)
Joint, 12.5 (06)
Nuclear, 85.7 (36)
Nuclear, 74.5 (38)
Nuclear, 79.2 (38)
Extended, 7.1 (03)
Extended, 2 (01)
Extended, 8.3 (04)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Karkala
Kundapura
Udupi
Data Analysis and Interpretation
115
The figure three indicates very clearly that majority of the respondents
belonged to the nuclear family type (Karkala 85.7%, Udupi 79.2%, and in Kundapur
74.5%). The percentage of respondents belonging to a joint family was low, 7.1% in
Karkala, 23.5% in Kundapura, and 12.5% in Udupi (Figure 3).
5.2 : The participation of the elected women representatives in social activities
before becoming a member of the Panchayat.
The following data provide information about the women member‟s
participation in various organizations and committees. This kind of information helps
the researcher in analyzing their effectiveness of participation in public activities and
how it contributed to helping them participate in local politics.
Table No. 5.2.1 : Membership in other organizations prior to Grama Panchayat
membership
Membership
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
NGO membership 05
(11.9)
37
(88.1)
42
(100)
03
(5.9)
48
(94.1)
51
(100)
02
(04.2)
46
(95.8)
48
(100)
SHG membership 12
(28.6)
30
(71.4)
42
(100)
27
(52.9)
24
(47.1)
51
(100)
15
(31.3)
33
(68.8)
48
(100)
Mahila Mandal
membership
06
(14.3)
36
(85.7)
42
(100)
06
(11.8)
45
(88.2)
51
(100)
11
(22.9)
37
(77.1)
48
(100)
Temple/Church
Committee membership
0
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100)
07
(13.7)
44
(86.3)
51
(100)
03
(06.3)
45
(93.8)
48
(100)
SDMC membership 01
(02.4)
41
(97.6)
42
(100)
02
(03.9)
49
(96.1)
51
(100)
05
(10.4)
43
(89.6)
48
(100)
Milk Dairy membership 01
(02.4)
41
(97.6)
42
(100)
05
(09.8)
46
(90.2)
51
(100)
0
(0)
0
(0)
48
(100)
As per table 5.2.1 more women were involved in SHG and Mahila Mandal
activity. This was quite common in the rural areas. And very few members have
membership in NGO, Temple / Church Committee, SDMC, and Milk cooperative
society. A vast majority of the women members did not have membership in any
local institution before becoming members of the Grama Panchayat. Even though
women members were residing in rural areas, very few of them got the chance to get
involved in SDMC.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
116
5.3 : Factors Motivating Women to Contest in the Panchayat Election.
Table No. 5.3.1 : The factor which motivated interest in the women to contest in
the Grama Panchayat election
Sl.
No Motivation
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
N= 42 N=51 N=48
Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank
1 Self 4.35 4 4.52 5 3.89 5
2 Husband 4.73 2 6.60 2 7.41 1
3 Children 2.40 9 4.70 4 3.08 7
4 Brother/s 2.09 10 4.03 7 2.02 9
5 Sister/s 3.04 8 2.49 8 1.70 10
6 Relatives 3.78 6 4.43 6 3.35 6
7 Villagers 6.11 1 6.94 1 6.45 3
8 Political party 4.45 3 6.50 3 7.06 2
9 SHG 3.45 7 1.92 10 2.81 8
10 NGO 4.21 5 2.0 9 5.45 4
Motivation was an important factor which had given the women a chance to
think about Panchayat Raj and local politics. Before 1993 it may have been a dream
for the rural women to contest in the Mandal Panchayat election. According to the
elected women representatives there were several factors which had motivated them
in different ways. Here the researcher identified ten common motivating factors and
asked the elected women to rank it. The study shows very interesting weightage /
reasons for the rank given by the elected women members.
Self- motivation ranked 4th
place in Karkala, whereas motivation from
husband came in 2nd
Rank. It is evident that the husband‟s motivation is more
important than self- motivation for the candidates in Kundapur (2nd
Rank) and Udupi
(1st rank) taluks. Another observation was that villagers and political party motivated
them strongly rather than relatives and family members like brother/s and sister/s. It
gives a very clear picture that villager‟s motivation can change anything. The
motivation of villagers stands first rank in Karkala and Kundapur taluks (6.5) and in
Udupi it has secured 3rd
rank.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
117
Table No. 5.3.2 : Reasons for contesting the Grama Panchayat election
Reasons for contesting the
Grama Panchayat election
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
For village development 05(11.9) 32(62.7) 28(58.4)
Service to the people 08(19.0) 07(13.7) 08(16.7)
Husband force 03(07.1) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Because of reservation 15(35.7) 02(03.9) 01(02.1)
Political party force 01(02.4) 01(02.0) 05(11.4)
Villagers force 02(04.8) 07(13.7) 03(06.3)
Don‟t know 01(02.4) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Self- interest 06(14.3) 01( 02.0) 01(02.1)
Family members force 01(02.4) 00 (0) 01(02.1)
Total 42(100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
It is evident from the above table that in Udupi (58.4%) and Kundapura
(62.7%) majority of the respondents contested the Grama Panchayat election for the
purpose of village development. But in Karkala taluk, 35.7% of the respondents‟ said
that they contested the Grama Panchayat election due to reservation. It indicates that
the elected representatives have a difference of opinion for contesting in different
taluks. Few of the members contested the elections because of the force exerted by the
husband, political party or villagers, and even family members. It is interesting to note
that some of the members have contested due to self- interest. The percentage is
14.3% in Karkala, 2% in Kundapura, and 2% in Udupi.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
118
Table No. 5.3.3 : Awareness regarding GP before becoming member
Awareness
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
All the Activity of GP 04(9.5) 11 (21.6) 11(22.9)
Village Development Programmes 01(02.4) 00(0) 02(04.2)
About Grama Sabha 04(09.5) 00(0) 02(04.2)
Don‟t know 00(0) 03(05.9) 00(0)
About Samithi 00(0) 04(07.8) 05(10.4)
Not Applicable 33(78.6) 33(64.7) 28(58.3)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Reasons Reason for not knowing
Because of illiteracy 05(11.9) 09 (17.6) 03(06.3)
Not gone out of the home 07(16.7) 01(02.0) 08 (16.7)
Lack of awareness 00(0) 00(0) 09 (18.8)
Not interested 11(26.2) 20 (39.2) 08 (16.7)
Don‟t know 10(23.8) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Not made an effort 00(0) 02(03.9) 00(0)
Not applicable 09(21.4) 18 (35.3) 20 (41.7)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
The table indicates that majority of the women members from Karkala
(78.6%), Kundapur (64.7%), and Udupi (58.3%) were not aware of any activity of the
Grama Panchayat. The percentage of members knowing about all the activities of the
Grama Panchayat was less, that is, Karkala- 9.5%, Kundapur - 21.6%, and Udupi -
22.9%. This table indicates that majority of the Grama Panchayat members without
knowing much about the Grama Panchayat activities entered into local politics. This
opportunity is provided by the 73rd
Constitutional Amendment Act. The Grama
Panchayat has become a platform for women to display their talents and serve the
village for the development purpose.
The respondents were asked about the reasons for not knowing about the
Grama Panchayat and its activity. They very frankly answered because of illiteracy,
not interested, and had not made an effort to collect information about the Grama
Panchayat. The answer varies from respondent to respondent. In Udupi taluk, 18.8%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
119
of the respondents said that because of lack of awareness they did not have
information about the Grama Panchayat and its activities. A good number of members
from Kundapur (39.2%), Karkala (26.2%), and Udupi (16.7%) expressed that they
were not interested enough to know about the Grama Panchayat before becoming a
member.
Table No. 5.3.4 : Source of information about Grama Panchayat activities
Source of information
about Gram Panchayat
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Political Party 01(02.4) 15(29.4) 04(08.3)
Villagers 00(0) 07(13.7) 04(08.3)
SHG 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Grama Panchayat 00(0) 04(07.8) 01(02.1)
Grama Sabha 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Training 40 (95.2) 19 (37.3) 33(68.8)
Husband 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 05(10.4)
Through reading 00(0) 02(03.9) 00(0)
Worked as a clerk in GP 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.3.4 indicates about the source of information for the women members
about the Grama Panchayat and its activities. Majority (Udupi- 95.2%, Kundapura-
37.3%, and in Karkala- 68.8%) of the elected women members got information while
training. Few of them got information through a political party (Kundapura- 29.4%,
Udupi- 8.3%, and Karkala- 2.4%). Some of the elected members got information from
other sources like villagers, SHG, Grama Panchayat, Grama Sabha, Husband, through
reading, etc. One member from Kundapura Taluk worked as a clerk in the Grama
Panchayat and was elected as a member in the Panchayat and she had also been
elected as the President of the Grama Panchayat.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
120
Table No. 5.3.5 : Family members served as a Grama Panchayat members
Family member served
as GP member
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Not at all 41(97.6) 42(82.4) 39(81.3)
Husband 01(02.4) 00(0) 03(06.3)
Father-in-law 00(0) 01(02.0) 02(04.2)
Mother 00(0) 02(03.9) 02(04.2)
Son- in- law 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Uncle 00(0) 03(05.9) 01(02.1)
Father 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Brother 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Grandmother 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
To identify the political background of the elected women Panchayat members
they were asked if any family member had served as a Panchayat member. Most of the
women representatives clearly stated that they were the first one in their family who had
entered into the Grama Panchayat as elected representatives. In Karkala (97.6%),
Kundapura (82.4), and in Udupi (81.3%) most of them had entered the Grama
Panchayat without any political background. But very few members‟ spouse (husband)
had entered the Grama Panchayat before the respondent‟s entry into the Panchayat
(Karkala- 2.4% and Kundapura- 6.3%). It is very clear that the majority of the women
members had entered the Panchayats as new entrants without any political background.
Table No. 5.3.6 : Opponents in the election
Opponent in the
election
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Male 00(0) 5(9.8) 05 (10.4)
Female 39 (92.9) 39(76.5) 38 (79.2)
Unanimous selection 03 (07.1) 07(13.7) 05 (10.4)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.3.6 indicates that majority of the women contested against women.
The percentage is 92.9% in Karkala taluk, 76.5% in Kundapura, and 79.2% in Udupi
taluk. Some of the women contested against men and the percentage of women who
won the election is 9.8% in Kundapur and10.4% in Udupi. In all the three taluks few
of them got selected unanimously.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
121
Figure – 4 : Elected Representatives opinion towards the present election system
Figure 4 presents data on the respondent‟s opinion towards the present
election of the Grama Panchayat. Majority (66.7%) of the respondents in Karkala
taluk opined that the present election system of the Grama Panchayat was good,
followed by Kundapura taluk (58.8%). A considerable number of respondents
(Karkala- 23.8%) and (Udupi- 27.1%) opined that lot of changes were required in the
election system. Only five out of 141 respondents stated that the present system of
election was not good.
Table No. 5.3.7 : Reaction of the family members and friends towards
respondents’ decision to become Panchayat member
Reactions
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
N=42 N=51 N=48
Score Rank Score Rank Score Rank
Parents 2.54 8 2.25 7 2.87 7
In-laws 2.61 7 2.25 8 2.02 8
Husband 3.88 1 4.37 1 4.39 1
Siblings 3.47 4 3.49 4 3.39 4
Children 2.78 6 3.33 6 3.04 6
Friends 3.83 2 3.27 3 3.77 3
Relatives 3.11 5 3.17 5 3.12 5
Neighbours 3.73 3 3.98 2 4.02 2
Frequency X value = Rank X 100/5scale
0
28 (66.7)
2 (4.8)
10 (23.8)
2(4.8)
13 (25.5)
30 (58.8)
6 (11.8)
1 (2)
1 (2)
10 (20.8)
13(27.1)
10(20.8)
13 (27.1)
2 (4.2)
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Very good system
Good
Present system accepted
Number of changes are required
The present system is not good
Data Analysis and Interpretation
122
Analyzing the response of the family members regarding Panchayat
membership is also crucial. An interesting result was found after interpreting the data.
In all three taluks (Karkala, Kundapura, and in Udupi), the husband had secured 1st
rank and it shows that they were happy that the wife has become a member of the
Grama Panchayat. In Karkala taluk, friends had occupied the second place followed
by neighbours in the third place, and in-laws and parents had taken the 7th
and 8th
ranks.
In Kundapura taluk nighbours had taken the second place followed by
siblings, parents, and in-laws had taken the last place. A notable change could be seen
in the rank taken by different people in their reaction about the position taken by the
women in the ward.
In Udupi taluk, the husband occupied the first place followed by neighbours,
friends, and siblings in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Parents and in-
laws occupied the seventh and eighth place.
5.4 : The problems and difficulties experienced by the elected women
representatives in relation to their role.
Table No. 5.4.1 : Problems faced in the Grama Panchayats
Problems faced
in the
Grama Panchayat
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Non co-operation
by male members 00
42
(100)
42
(100)
01
(2.0)
50
(98.0)
51
(100)
04
(8.3)
44
(91.7) 48
(100)
Non co-operation
by the secretary
01
(2.4)
41
(97.6)
42
(100)
01
(2.0)
50
(98.0)
51
(100)
03
(6.3)
45
(93.8) 48
(100)
Not informed about
agenda for the
meeting
01
(2.4)
41
(97.6)
42
(100) 00
51
(100)
51
(100)
02
(4.2)
46
(95.8) 48
(100)
Protocol respect
was not given 00
42
(100)
42
(100) 00
51
(100)
51
(100)
02
(4.2)
46
(95.8) 48
(100)
Late notice for the
meeting 00
42
(100)
42
(100) 00
51
(100)
51
(100)
02
(4.2)
46
(95.8) 48
(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
123
From the above table it is found that more than ninety percent of the respondents
did not face any problem in the Grama Panchayat. In Karkala taluk, two of the respondents
mentioned the problems faced in the Panchayat like non- cooperation by the secretary
(2.4%) and not informing about the meeting agenda. As far as Kundapur taluk was
concerned two respondents expressed that they were facing problems in the Panchayat like
not getting co-operation from the male members (2.0%) and non- cooperation by the
secretary (2.0%). In Udupi district 11 (27.2%) respondents mentioned that they face
problems in the Panchayat like non-cooperation by male members(8.3%), non- cooperation
by the secretary (6.3%), Not informing about meeting agenda (4.2%), not giving protocol
respect (4.2%), and giving late notice of the meeting (4.2%).
Table No. 5.4.2 : Efforts made by the women members to settle the problems
faced in the Grama Panchayat
Type of problems
faced in the Grama
Panchayat
Effort made to settle
the problems
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Effort made to settle the
Non co-operation by the
male members
Not applicable 42
(100)
50
(98.0)
44
(91.7)
Collective effort of the
women members NA
01
(02.0)
04
(08.3)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Effort made to settle the
non co-operation of the
secretary
Not applicable 41
(97.6)
50
(98.0)
44
(91.7)
Discussed with CEO and
changed the secretary
01
(02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Collective effort of
members 0(0)
01
(02.0)
03
(06.3)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Effort made to settle not
informing agenda of the
meeting
Not applicable 41
(97.6)
51
(100)
46
(95.8)
Discussed in the meeting
and settled the problem
01
(02.4) 00(0)
02
(04.2)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Effort made to settle the
protocol respect.
Not applicable 42
(100)
51
(100)
46
(95.8)
Discussed in the Grama
Panchayat meeting 00(0) 00(0)
02
(04.2)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Effort made to settle the
issue of giving late
notice of the meeting
Not applicable 42
(100)
51
(100)
46
(95.8)
Discussed with the
President and secretary 00(0) 00(0)
02
(04.2)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
124
Table 5.4.2 presents data on the efforts made by the women to settle the
problems faced in the Grama Panchayat. As far as settling the problem of non co-
operation by the male members was concerned, both in Kundapura and Udupi taluk,
women had made collective efforts to solve this problem. This is a good stand taken
by the women; this shows their level of awareness regarding fighting against
exploitation.
It is a very common phenomenon in the Grama Panchayat that secretaries do
not extend any co-operation to the elected representatives, especially women
representatives. In order to tackle this problem the women members in Karkala taluk
discussed the issue with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and replaced the
secretary. The women members of Kundapura and Udupi Panchayats had made a
collective effort to deal with this problem.
Some of the women reported that they were not informed about the meeting
agenda. Majority of the women representatives are not much educated and more over
they are women. Our society is patriarchal in nature, where the contribution of women
is bypassed or neglected. Society underestimates the capacity of the women. They
were not bothered to inform the meeting agenda by thinking that it is useless to
inform them. The women had settled this problem by discussing it in the meeting.
The respondents in the Udupi district reported that protocol respect was not
given to them. They discussed this in the Grama Panchayat meeting and settled it. All
these problems were due to the contention that women were not capable enough to
undertake any activity.
The problem of giving late notice of the meeting was faced by two women
members of Udupi district. They settled this issue by discussing it with the President
and secretary. It is significant to note that women who faced problems in the
Panchayat had made an effort to tackle the issue.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
125
Table No. 5.4.3 : Problems faced by the respondents
Type of problems
faced
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Attending Grama
Panchayat meeting
00
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100)
49
(96.1)
02
(3.9)
51
(100)
04
(8.3)
44
(91.7) 48
(100)
Election
canvassing
00
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100) 0
51
(100)
51
(100)
06
(12.5)
42
(87.5) 48
(100)
Attending training 00
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100)
01
(2.0)
50
(98.0)
51
(100)
03
(6.3)
45
(93.8) 48
(100)
Attending
Programme
00
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100) 0
51
(100)
51
(100)
04
(8.3)
44
(91.7) 48
(100)
To visit the place 00
(0)
42
(100)
42
(100) 0
51
(100)
51
(100)
04
(8.3)
44
(91.7) 48
(100)
Problems faced
while initiating any
programme in their
ward
3
(9.5)
38
(90.5)
42
(100)
04
(7.8)
47
(92.2)
51
(100)
15
(31.3)
33
(68.8) 48
(100)
Table 5.4.3 presents data on whether the women members faced any problem
while attending Panchayat meetings, election canvassing, attending training, attending
programme, to initiate any programme in their ward. Majority of the women members
said that they did not face any problem while attending the Grama Panchayat meeting.
With regard to attending the training programme, a very low percentage of women
mentioned that they faced any problem. Training is crucial for the newly elected
members because training is an effective strategy in transforming them. It is positive
to note that majority of the women members did not face any problem while attending
training. They were also asked whether they had any problem to while initiating any
programme for their ward. More than 90% of the women members, besides Udupi
(68.8%) taluk, mentioned that they had no problem as such.
Table No. 5.4.4 : Problems faced by the respondents from the GP staff
To manage the Panchayat activity problems faced from
the GP staff
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No problem 41
(97.6) 49
(96.1) 43
(89.6)
Non co-operation by secretary 01
(2.4) 02
(3.9) 05
(10.4)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
126
It is significant to note that majority of the women members covered under
this study did not face any problems from the GP staff. Only one (2.4%) woman
member of Karkala taluk, two (3.9%) of Kundapura taluk, and five (10.4%) of Udupi
district faced the problem of non co-operation by the secretary.
Table No. 5.4.5 : Positions held and tenure of the respondents
Positions Number of years
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
%
No. of respondents
%
No. of respondents
%
Member
One Year 01(02.4) 00 00(0)
Two Year 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Five Year 41 (97.6) 50 (98.0) 48 (100)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Standing Committee member
Not at all 41 (97.6) 46 (90.2) 27(56.3)
One Year 00(0) 02(03.9) 14(29.2)
Two Year 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 05(10.4)
Four Year 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Five Year 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Standing Committee President
Not at all 30 (71.4) 43 (84.3) 38 (79.2)
One Year 00(0) 02(3.9) 07(14.6)
Two Year 11(26.2) 06(11.8) 03(06.3)
Four Year 01(02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Grama Panchayat President
Not at all 27(64.3) 42 (82.4) 35(72.9)
One Year 01(02.4) 03(6.3)
Two and half Year 14 (33.3) 09(17.6) 10 (20.8)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Vice President
not applicable 42(100) 44 (86.3) 47 (97.9)
one year 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
two year 00(0) 06(11.8) 00(0)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48 (100)
Grama Panchayat representative in T P
Not at all 42 (100) 49 (96.1) 47 (97.9)
One Year 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Two Year 00(0) 01(2.0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Grama Panchayat representative ZP
Not at all 39(92.8) 51 (100.0) 45 (93.8)
One Year 01(02.4) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Two Year 01(02.4) 00(0) 02(04.2)
Three Year 01(02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
127
Table 5.4.5 presents information on the different positions held by the Grama
Panchayat members. It is clear from the above data that majority of the members were
just members in the Panchayat and held the position for five years (Karkala- 95.2%,
Kundapura- 98%, and Udupi -100%). Very few percentages of women had
represented as committee president, committee members, Grama Panchayat President,
and Vice President, Grama Panchayat representative in Taluk Panchayat and Zilla
Panchayat. It is significant to note that none of the women covered in Karkala taluk
the study enjoyed the position of Grama Panchayat representative to the Taluk
Panchayat. There was no representation of women from the Grama Panchayat to the
Zilla Panchayat in Kundapura.
From the above data it is very clear that due to the reservation of seats they
could become members of the Grama Panchayat. As there is no reservation policy in
force to become a committee member, committee president, representative Grama
Panchayat member to the Taluk and Zilla Panchayat, the women did not get the
opportunity to hold these positions.
Table No. 5.4.6 : Ability to manage their positions in Grama Panchayats
Position Level of
management
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Member
Very good 13(31.0) 19 (37.3) 10 (20.8)
Good 19(45.2) 16 (31.4) 24 (50.0)
Satisfactory 08(19.0) 12 (23.5) 12 (25.0)
Not satisfactory 02(04.8) 01 (02.0) 01(02.1)
Very poor 00(0) 03 (05.9) 01(02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Standing
Committee
Member
Very good 00(0) 01(02.0) 03(06.3)
Good 01(02.4) 00(0) 14 (29.2)
Satisfactory 00(0) 03(05.9) 05(10.4)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 41(97.6) 47(92.2) 26(54.1)
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
128
Standing
Committee
President
Very good 04(09.5) 03(05.9) 02(04.2)
Good 07(16.7) 04(07.8) 07(14.6)
Satisfactory 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 04(08.3)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 30 (71.4) 42 (82.4) 35 (72.9)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
GP President
Very good 06(14.3) 06(11.8) 05(10.4)
Good 05(11.9) 02(03.9) 04(08.3)
Satisfactory 01(02.4) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Poor 02(04.8) 03(05.9) 02(04.2)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 28 (66.6) 40 (78.4) 36 (75.0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Vice President
Very good 01(02.4) 02(03.9) 01(02.1)
Good 01(02.4) 03(05.9) 00(0)
Satisfactory 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 40 (95.2) 46(90.2) 47 (97.9)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
GP
Representative
in TP
Very good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Good 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Satisfactory 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 42 (100.0) 49 (96.1) 47 (97.9)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
GP
Representative
in ZP
Very good 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Good 02(04.8) 01(02.0) 02(04.2)
Satisfactory 00(0) 00(0) 01(02.1)
Poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Very poor 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Not at all 40 (95.2) 50 (98.0) 45 (93.8)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
129
Table 5.4.6 presents information as to what extent the women members were
able to manage their position. It is evident from the above data that majority of the
women members could manage their position in a good and satisfactory manner.
None of the women had reported that she was poor in managing her position. Some
of the women mentioned that they could manage their position in a very good manner.
It is significant to note that they could manage well as members of the Grama
Panchayat than any other position.
Table No. 5.4.7 : Social status increased after becoming GP member
Social status
increased
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 41 (97.6) 50 (98.0) 47 (97.9)
No 01 (02.4) 01 (02.0) 01 (02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
It is significant to note from Table 5.4.8 that a great majority of the
respondents reported that their social status has increased after becoming a member of
the Grama Panchayat, since they represent their ward.
Table No. 5.4.8 : Male co-members outlook towards women members
Male co-members
outlook towards women
members
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Very good Co-operation 24 (57.1) 33 (64.7) 23 (47.9)
Co-operative 16 (38.1) 16 (31.4) 25 (52.1)
Natural 02 (04.8) 00(0) 00(0)
Neglected 00(0) 01(02.0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.4.9 presents data on male co- members’ outlook towards women
members. A good number of the women members mentioned that they received very
good co-operation from the male members. Only one (2%) respondent in Kundapura
taluk reported that she was neglected by her male co- members.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
130
Table No. 5.4.10 : Respondents ability to exercise their legitimate power
Respondents are
able
to exercise their
legitimate power
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 18 (42.9) 28 (54.9) 27 (56.3)
Sometimes 22 (52.4) 21 (41.2) 19 (39.6)
No 02 (04.8) 02 (03.9) 02 (04.2)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
The ability to exercise their legitimate power is also very important aspect. A
good percentage (Karkala- 42.9%, Kundapur- 54.9%, and Udupi- 56.3%) of the
respondents said that they were able to exercise their authority. Only a few
respondents reported that they could not exercise their power.
Table No. 5.4.11 : Reasons for their inability to exercise their legitimate power
Reasons for not being able
to exercise their legitimate
power
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Not applicable 40 (95.2) 49 (96.1) 46 (95.8)
All the members do not
agree with the respondents
opinion
01 (02.4) 01 (02.0) 02 (04.2)
Not much aware about
Panchayat procedure
01 (02.4) 0 0
Non co-operation 0 01 (02.0) 0
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
It is evident from Table 5.4.11 that few of the respondents were not able to
exercise their legitimate power. The reason behind this is that they do not get consent
or co-operation from all the members if they have to implement something and also
they are not much aware about the procedures.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
131
5.5 : To study the Strategies adapted by the Elected Women Representatives in
implementing Development Programmes
Table No. 5.5.1: Availability of guidance from the Panchayat officials
Availability of
guidance from GP
officials are
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 40 (95.2) 47 (92.2) 46 (95.8)
No 01 (02.4) 04 (07.8) 02 (04.2)
Sometimes 01 (02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.5.1 presents data on whether the respondents get guidance from the
Grama Panchayat officials or not. It is significant to note that majority (Karkala-
95.2%, Kundapura- 92.2%, and Udupi-95.8%) of the respondents reported that they
get guidance from the Grama Panchayat officials.
Table No. 5.5.2 : Weightage given by co-members to respondent’s suggestions
Co-members
considering
respondents
suggestion
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 22 (52.4) 33 (64.7) 42 (87.5)
Sometimes 20 (47. 6) 16 (31.4) 06 (12.5)
Not at all 00(0) 02 (03.9) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Considering the respondents’ suggestion while implementing a project a good
number of them, that is, 87.5% in Udupi taluk followed by Kundapura (64.7%) and
Karkala (52.4%) mentioned that their suggestions are considered while implementing
the project. Only two (3.9%) respondents in Kundapura taluk mentioned that their
suggestions were not considered (Table 5.5.2).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
132
Table No. 5.5.3 : Attending Grama Panchayat Meetings
Attending all the
Grama Panchayat
meetings
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 40 (95.2) 49(96.1) 45 (93.8)
Sometimes 02 (04.8) 02 (03.9) 03 (06.3)
No 00(0) 00(0) 00(0)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
One of the major finding of the study is that in spite of their household chores
women members make it a point to attend all the meetings of the Panchayat which is
very appreciable. More than ninety percent of the respondents are attending all the
meetings of the Panchayat. It is very true that women are good managers as is found
in this study because they are balancing both family and politics (Table 5.5.3).
Table No. 5.5.4 : Active participation in the meeting
Active participation
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
%
No. of
respondents
%
Yes 40 (95.2) 42 (82.4) 42 (87.5)
Sometimes 02 (04.8) 09 (17.6) 05 (10.4)
No 00 00 01 (02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Majority of the respondents participated actively in the Panchayat meeting
which is evident from the above data. It is said that if there is no involvement there is
no development. Unless there is active participation by the women in the Panchayat
meeting or activities, their talents and capacities will not be identified. It is significant
to note that majority of the women are actively participating in the Panchayat meeting
which is an important step in moving towards development (Table 5.5.4).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
133
Table No. 5.5.5 : Programmes implemented in the ward
Programmes implemented in the
ward
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes No Total Yes No Total Yes No Total
Housing Number 0 42 42 0 51 51 24 24 48
Percentage 0 100 100 0 100 100 50 50 100
Drainage Number 0 42 42 0 51 51 24 24 48
Percentage 0 100 100 0 100 100 50 50 100
Village sanitation
programme
Number 10 32 42 17 34 51 17 31 48
Percentage 23.8 76.2 100 33.3 66.7 100 35.4 64.6 100
Village cleaning
programme
Number 7 16.7 42 3 48 51 0 48 48
Percentage 35 83.3 100 5.9 94.1 100 0 100 100
Primary Health
Center
Number 6 36 42 5 46 51 0 48 48
Percentage 14.3 85.7 100 9.8 90.2 100 0 100 100
Road Light Number 0 42 42 0 51 51 32 16 48
Percentage 0 100 100 0 100 100 66.7 33.3 100
Road repair
Number 14 28 42 34 17 51 33 15 48
Percentage 33.3 66.7 100 66.7 33.3 100 68.8 31.3 100
Drinking Water
Number 13 29 42 32 19 51 33 15 48
Percentage 31.0 69.0 100 62.7 37.3 100 68.8 31.3 100
Electricity
Number 9 33 42 24 27 51 0 48 48
Percentage 21.4 78.6 100 47.1 52.9 100 0 100 100
Small Bridge
Number 0 0 42 0 51 51 7 41 48
Percentage 0 0 100 0 100 100 14.6 85.4 100
Anganawadi
Number 4 38 42 2 49 51 2 46 48
Percentage 9.5 90.5 100 3.9 96.1 100 4.2 95.8 100
Illiteracy
Number 0 42 42 1 50 51 00 48 48
Percentage 0 100 100 2.0 98.0 100 0 100 100
Farm Pond Number 0 42 42 0 51 51 2 46 48
Percentage 0 100 100 0 100 100 4.2 95.8 100
Tank Desilting
Number 0 48 42 0 51 51 4 44 48
Percentage 0 100 100 0 100 100 8.3 91.7 100
Grama Panchayat
Building
Number 18 24 42 23 28 51 0 48 48
Percentage 42.9 57.1 100 45.1 54.9 100 0 100 100
Data Analysis and Interpretation
134
It is evident from the above data that on the whole majority of the elected
women members of the Grama Panchayat implemented most of the programmes such
as village sanitation, road repair, water, and electricity programme.
The Grama Panchayat in Karkala taluk concentrated more on village sanitation
programmes, village cleaning, primary health centers, road repair, anganawadi,
drinking water, and electricity.
The Grama Panchayat in Udupi taluk concentrated on some of the
programmes, viz., housing, drainage facility, road lights (street lights) village
sanitation programmes, village road repair, anganawadi center, drinking water, small
bridge (kalu sanka) farm pond, and tank desilting. Very select activities were
undertaken by the elected women members of the Grama Panchayat.
Table No. 5.5.6 : Visiting the ward
Visiting your ward
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Resident of same ward 27 (64.3) 02(03.9) 05(10.4)
Once in a weak 08(19.0) 07(13.7) 08(16.7)
Every fifteen days 03(07.1) 08(15.7) 09(18.8)
Once in month 04(09.5) 30(58.8) 21(43.8)
Once in six month 00 00 00
Once in a year 00 00 00
Not at all 00 00 01(02.1)
People are coming
to my home.
00 04(07.8) 04(08.3)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.5.6 provides data on the frequency of visits by the members to their
ward. It is evident that majority (64.3%) of the respondents in Karkala taluk
mentioned that they were resident of same ward. Hence they were in frequent contact
with the people of the ward. As far as Kundapura (58.8%) and Udupi (43.8%) taluks
are concerned majority of them visit the ward once in month. A few members visit
once in a week or once in fifteen days. It was interesting to note that one member in
Udupi taluk did not attend her ward at all.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
135
Table No. 5.5.7 : Response received in the meetings
Response in the meetings
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Yes 29(69.0) 47(92.2) 47(97.9)
No 01(02.4) 04(07.8) 01(02.1)
Sometimes 12(28.6) 0 0
Never asked the questions 0 0 0
Total 42(100) 51(100) 48(100)
It is evident from the above table that majority of the women members in Udupi
district get a good response to their questions. It is also one of the important changes
which is taking place in the villages. People are changing their notion towards women.
Table No. 5.5.8 : Regularity in the ward meetings
Regular ward
meetings
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Yes 42(100) 47(92.2) 47(97.9)
No 0 04(07.8) 01(02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
It is evident from the above table that 97.9% of the respondents in Udupi taluk
conduct ward meetings regularly and no respondent in Karkala taluk conducts
meetings which is not a good sign.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
136
Table No. 5.5.9 : Number of members attending Grama Sabha meeting
Number of
member attend
the ward meetings
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Less than 100 25(59.5) 06(17.8) 19(39.6)
101 to 150 13(31.0) 09(17.6) 07(14.6)
151 to 200 03(07.1) 09(17.6) 10(20.8)
201 to 250 01(02.4) 04(07.8) 02(04.2)
251 to 300 0 04(07.8) 07(14.6)
301 to 350 0 03(05.9) 0
351 to 400 0 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
401 and above 0 15(29.4) 02(04.2)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
People‟s participation is crucial for the successful implementation of any
programme. Representation of the people in the Grama Sabha or ward meeting is one
of the ways to enhance people participation in village development. Majority of the
respondents in Karkala (59.5%) and Udupi (39.6%) reported that less than 100 people
attend the Grama Sabha meeting. People’s participation in the Grama Sabha meeting
had to be increased by creating awareness.
Table No. 5.5.10 : Opinion regarding 33% reservation
Opinion regarding
reservation
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Enough 22(52.4) 12(23.5) 13(27.1)
Not enough 19(45.2) 39(76.5) 34(70.8)
Reservation not required 0 0 01(2.1)
Don‟t Know 01(2.4) 0 0
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
137
There is an ongoing national debate with regard to the 33% reservation. There
are mixed opinions pertaining to the reservation bill. When the women members of
the Panchayat were asked questions with regard to the reservation, majority of them
expressed that 33% is not enough. Only one woman said that reservation was not
required. It is evident from the above data that women had identified that reservation
is one of the important tool to increase women representation in politics.
Table No. 5.5.11 : Reason For Not Contesting Next Election
Reasons
Karkala Kundapura Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Contesting for next election 31 (73.8) 31(60.9) 27(56.3)
Household work 01 (02.4) 02 (03.9) 04(08.3)
Not interested 01 (02.4) 05 (09.8) 06(12.5)
Health Problems 01 (02.4) 02 (03.9) 02(04.2)
To give opportunity to others 03 (07.1) 02(03.9) 01(02.1)
Left the village 01 (02.4) 00(0) 00(0)
Because of loosing coolie 02 (04.8) 00(0) 00(0)
Personal problems 02 (04.8) 00(0) 00(0)
Family problems 00(0) 04(07.8) 05(10.5)
People are not accepted 00(0) 04(07.8) 02(04.2)
Party politics 00(0) 01(02.0) 01(02.1)
Total 42 (100) 51 (100) 48 (100)
Table 5.5.11 sought information regarding the elected women representatives‟
interest in contesting the next election. A large number of women expressed that they
would like to contest the next election [Karkala- 31 (73.8%), Kundapura -31(60.9%),
and Udupi- 27 (56.3%)]. It indicates that women are interested in participating in the
public life. Few of the respondents‟ expressed various reasons for not contesting the
next election. Among them, 4(7.8%) from Kundapura and 2(4.2%) from Karkala
expressed that people have not accepted them.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
138
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE PARTICIPATION OF
ELECTED WOMEN IN THE GRAMA PANCHAYATS OF
CHAMARAJANAGARA DISTRICT AND UDUPI DISTRICT OF
KARNATAKA
This analysis depicts the comparative analysis of the participation of women
in the Grama Panchayats of Chamarajanagara district and Udupi district of Karnataka.
The data was collected from all the taluks of both the districts such as
Chamarajanagara, Gundlupet, Kollegal, Yalandur Karkala, Kundapura, and Udupi.
6.1 : Comparative analysis of the Profile of elected women representatives in the
Grama Panchayats.
Table No. 6.1.1 : Age of respondents
Age of the
respondents
Chamarajanagara district Udupi district
Number of respondents (%) Number of respondents (%)
21-25 07(04.8) 03 (02.1)
26-30 31(21.1) 13 (09.2)
31-35 37(25.2) 19 (13.5)
36-40 22(15.0) 28 (19.9)
41-45 11(07.5) 28 (19.9)
46-50 17(11.6) 20 (14.2)
51-55 12(08.2) 15 (10.6)
56-60 04(02.7) 14 (09.9)
61 -65 06(04.1) 01 (00.7)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
Mean age 38.23 42.18
SD 10.31 18.79
Table 6.1.1 presents data on age of the respondents belonging to both,
Chamarajanagara and Udupi districts. Understanding the respondent‟s age is crucial
to find out at what age the representation of women is higher and also to find out the
mean age representation. In India you can vote on completing 18 years of age and the
government has put forth various eligible age groups to become member of PRI,
MLA, MP, and so on. In this study, age means the elected women‟s age at the start of
their tenure as members in the Panchayats.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
139
In the present study, the age of the respondents was classified ranging from 21
years to 65 years with a class interval of five. With regard to Chamarajanagara
district, majority (25.9%) of the respondents fell in the age category of 21 to 30 years,
whereas, in Udupi district 11.3% of the respondents belonged to the age category of
21 to 30 years. In Chamarajanagara district, it was tilted in favour of the younger age
group, whereas in Udupi district more number of women was represented from the
middle age group. The representation of older women was very less. Young
unmarried women are usually not encouraged to enter politics due to the fear of not
getting a life partner. Snehlata Pandey‟s (1987) study revealed that not a single PRI
representative was unmarried and she also mentioned that the entry of married women
to PRIs was due to - (1) unmarried girls were not allowed by their parents to hold
such posts; (2) unmarried girls have no political ambition; (3) the village communities
have strong reservation against selecting unmarried girls contesting political offices;
(4) girls would stake their marriage if they indulged in public activities before
marriage. However, it is important to mention that there are a good number of women
elected from the younger age group, i.e., between 21 to 30 years in the study area.
This is in line with the study made by Pamela Singla (2007) the result of which stated
that there are a good number of women elected from the younger age group. On the
whole in both the districts, majority of the respondents were in the age group of 21 to
50 years. This observation is in line with the study conducted by Tremblay and
Kumtakar. The study observed that the majority, that is, 81% of the women
Panchayati Raj leaders were in the age group of 21 to 50 years.
Prior to the 73rd
Amendment, women‟s participation in PRIs was negligible.
This is definitely a significant change from the earlier days especially changing the
mindset of the families.
Based on the information given in Table 6.1.1, it was calculated that the mean
age of the Chamarajanagara district respondents is 38.18 and the mean age of Udupi
district respondents was 42.25.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
140
Table No. 6.1.2 (A) : Education of the respondents correlated with education of
the spouse in Chamarajanagara district
Respondents
Education in Chamarajanagara
district
Spouse Education in Chamarajanagara district
Illi
tera
te
Neo
-lit
erate
Pre
-
Pri
ma
ry
Pri
ma
ry
Hig
h
Sch
oo
l
PU
C
Deg
ree
No
t
ap
pli
cab
le
To
tal
Illiterate 20
(13.5) 00
03 (2.0)
09 (6.1)
04 (2.7)
00 00 08
(5.4) 44
(29.7)
Neo-literate 11
(7.4) 00 00 00
01 (0.7)
00 04
(2.7) 00
16
(10.8)
Pre-primary 09
(6.1) 00
01 (0.7)
09 (6.1)
02 (1.4)
00 00 02
(1.4) 23
(15.7)
Primary 07
(4.8) 00
04 (2.7)
00 05
(3.4) 01
(0.7) 00
03 (2.1)
20
(13.6)
High School 11
(7.4) 00
01 (0.7)
01 (0.7)
14 (9.5)
01 (0.7)
01 (0.7)
01 (0.7)
30
(20.4)
PUC 00 00 00 00 02
(1.4) 01
(0.7) 03
(2.1) 01
(0.7) 07
(4.9)
Degree 02
(1.4) 00 00 00 00 00
05 (3.5)
00 07
(4.9)
Total 60
(40.6) 00
09
(6.1)
19
(12.9)
28
(19.1)
03
(2.1)
13
(8.9)
15
(10.3)
147
(100)
Table No. 6.1.2 (B) : Education of the respondents correlated with education of
the spouse in Udupi District
Respondents Education in
Udupi district
Spouse education in Udupi district
Total
Illi
tera
te
Neo
-li
tera
te
Pre
-
Pri
mary
Pri
mary
Hig
h
Sch
ool
PU
C
Deg
ree
Not
ap
pli
cab
le
Illiterate 05
(3.6) 01
(0.7) 01
(0.7) 04
(2.8) 02
(1.4) 00 00 00
13
(9.2)
Neo-literate 03
(2.1) 00
01 (0.7)
02 (1.4)
00 00 00 01
(0.7) 07
(4.9)
Pre-primary 04
(2.8) 00
01 (0.7)
13 (9.3)
00 00 00 01
(0.7) 19
(13.5)
Primary 01
(0.7) 00
07 (4.9)
07 (4.9)
11 (7.8)
01 (0.7)
02 (1.4)
04 (2.8)
33
(23.2)
High School 01
(0.7) 00
02 (1.4)
12 (8.5)
16 (11.8)
03 (2.1)
06 (4.2)
01 (0.7)
41
(29.4)
PUC 01
(0.7) 00 00
03 (2.1)
05 (3.6)
04 (2.8)
05 (3.6)
04 (2.8)
22
(15.6)
Degree 00 00 00 00 00 01
(0.7) 04
(2.8) 01
(0.7) 06
(4.2)
Total 15
(10.6)
01
(0.7)
12
(8.4)
41
(29.0)
34
(24.6)
9
(6.3)
17
(12.0)
12
(8.4)
141
(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
141
Table 6.1.2 (A) and Table 6.1.2 (B) correlates education of the respondents
and of the the spouse in Chamarajanagara and Udupi districts. It is important to know
the respondents educational background and the education of their spouses.
Understanding education helps in knowing whether there is significant relation
between their education and participation. Education is one of the effective tools in
creating awareness and empowerment. Lack of proper education and orientation are
obstacles for a woman to play an effective role in the Panchayats. The effects of
education are primarily interpreted as human capital enhancing: education confers
participation- enhancing skills such as cognitive ability, civic skills, and civic
orientations. Education confers cognitive ability and political information, both of
which enable individuals to make sense of politics (Campbell et. al. 1960).
It is evident from the Table 6.1.2(A) that majority of the women members of
Chamarajanagara district, i.e., 70.2% were educated. Of this 10.8% were neo-
literates, 15.7% were educated up to pre- primary level, 13.6% studied up to primary
level, 20.4% were matriculates, 4.9% had passed Senior Secondary, and 4.9% were
graduates.
As far as the educational level of the women members of Udupi district were
concerned, 90.8% of them are educated. Of this 4.9% were neo-literates, 13.5% were
educated up to pre-primary level, 23.2% studied up to primary level, 29.4% were
matriculates, 15.6% passed Senior Secondary School, and 4.2% were graduates.
With regard to the education of the member‟s spouses in Chamarajanagara
district, it was found that about 59.4% of them were educated whereas in Udupi
district, 89.4% of the spouses were educated.
When women member‟s educational level and their spouse‟s education of both
the districts are correlated, it was clear from the field data that the level of education
of the women members and their spouses was better in Udupi district compared to
Chamarajanagara district. It was observed that the education of the women members
and their spouses was almost the same in accordance with both the districts.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
142
There are studies which indicate that lack of education affects performance of
the members, especially women. Ambedkar and Shailaja (2011) mentioned in their
study that education affects women‟s participation in political affairs to a greater
extent. To be uneducated and to be a woman is by itself the two most important
causes of decreased political participation and when these are united their effect is
doubled. Education is closely related to other social and psychological variables.
Verba , Schlozman, and Burns (1995) observe that, “Educational attainment is, in
fact, the single most potent predictor of an adult‟s political activity.”
Table No. 6.1.3(A) : Level of education cross tabulated with caste category of the
respondents in Chamarajanagara District
Education of
the
respondents
Caste of the respondents
Total SC ST
Cat.-
1
Cat.-
2A
Cat.-
2B
Cat.-
3A
Cat.-
3B General
Illiterate 15
(10.2)
13
(8.8)
12
(8.1)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
02
(1.4)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
44
(29.9)
Neo-literate 07
(4.8)
02
(1.4)
03
(2.0)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0) 00
02
(1.4)
16
(11.0)
Pre-primary 06
(4.0)
04
(2.7)
04
(2.7)
02
(1.4)
04
(2.7)
02
(1.4)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
23
(15.6)
Primary 08
(5.5)
03
(2.0)
04
(2.7)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
00
(0)
04
(2.7)
00
(0)
20
(13.6)
High School 12
(8.2)
04
(2.7)
02
(1.4)
03
(2.0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
09
(6.1)
30
(20.4)
PUC 04
(2.7)
00
(0)
00
(0)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
07
(4.8)
Degree 04
(2.7)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
07
(4.8)
Total 56
(38.1)
28
(19.0)
25
(16.9)
11
(7.6)
04
(2.7)
04
(2.8)
08
(5.4)
11
(7.5)
147
(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
143
Table No. 6.1.3 (B) : Level of education cross tabulated with caste category of the
respondents in UDUPI District
Education of
the
respondents
Caste of the respondents
Total SC ST
Cat.-
1
Cat.-
2A
Cat.-
2B
Cat.-
3A
Cat.-
3B General
Illiterate 04
(2.8)
04
(2.8)
02
(1.4)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
13
(9.1)
Neo-literate 04
(2.8)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
07
(4.9)
Pre-primary 04
(2.8)
02
(1.4)
01
(0.7)
10
(7.0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
19
(13.3)
Primary 02
(1.4)
03
(2.1)
03
(2.1)
15
(10.9)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
06
(4.2)
03
(2.1)
33
(23.5)
High School 01
(0.7)
04
(2.8)
06
(4.2)
15
(10.9)
02
(1.4)
00
(0)
06
(4.2)
07
(5.1)
41
(29.3)
PUC 05
(3.5)
03
(2.1)
02
(1.4)
07
(5.2)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
03
(2.1)
01
(0.7)
22
(15.7)
Degree 00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
03
(2.1)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
06
(4.2)
Total 20
(14.0)
18
(12.6)
14
(9.8)
52
(37.5)
04
(2.8)
01
(0.7)
19
(13.3)
13
(9.3)
141
(100)
Table 6.1.3(A) and Table 6.1.3 (B) cross tabulate education and caste category
of the respondents of Chamarajanagara and Udupi districts. It is imperative to
understand the relationship between education and caste category of the respondents
which clarifies the educational status of different castes. It also highlights the
importance of caste in the emergence of women as Panchayat leaders. At one end of
the spectrum we have the outcastes such as SCs and the STs and on the other end we
have the upper castes consisting of priests, landlords, and the merchants castes. In
between there are hundreds of other social groups arranged hierarchically by the caste
social order. Several among these groups are condemned to backwardness - social,
economic, and educational, because of the humble occupation their caste has ascribed
to them (Ambedkar and Shailaja, 2011).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
144
It is clear from Table 6.1.3(A) that majority of the women members in
Chamarajanagara district represent the Scheduled Caste - 38.1%, Scheduled Tribe -
19%, and Category I - 16.9 %. In these three categories a large number of the
respondents are Illiterate. The general category was not much represented when
compared to the SC, ST, and Category- I. There are 9.3% respondents under the
general category who are educated.
With regard to Udupi district, Table 6.1.3(B) reveals that majority (37.5%) of
the women members represent Cat.-2A. There appears to be an equal distribution of
the number of elected women members around various caste categories, except
Category-2B and Category-3B as shown in Table 6.1.3(B). Under Cat. -2A, only two
women members are Illiterate and the majority had primary and high school
education. Under general category none of the women members are Illiterate.
When education and caste category of both the districts are compared it is
found that the SC, ST, and Cat.-I representation is higher in Chamarajanagara district.
Percentage of Illiterate SC, ST and Cat.-I is 27.1% in Chamarajanagara district and
17.0% in Udupi district. It was noted that illiterate women members were more in
Chamarajanagara as compared to Udupi district. It is important to mention that none
of the SC, ST, and Cat.-I women members had reached graduation level in Udupi
district.
It is crucial to mention that most of the Panchayat women members are from
the lower social order. This result is in line with the study made by Anil. S. Sutar
(2008). The result of the study observed that the upper castes because of their
stronger thrust on patriarchy were reluctant to let their women folk enter the village
politics. Therefore, the representation of women from upper castes was restricted to
the provision of law, i.e., one-third of reservation for women in PRI. The situation
was quite encouraging in the case of representation from the lower castes. The
number of women leaders in Panchayats from lower castes was considerably higher
than the one-third reservation as provided by the Constitution.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
145
Table No. 6.1.4(A) : Marital status cross tabulated with employment in
Chamarajanagara District
Marital status of
the respondents
Employment of the respondents
Total
Dail
y w
ager
Agri
cult
ura
l
Lab
ou
r
Hom
emak
er
Sel
f -
emp
loym
ent
Pri
vate
job
Agri
cult
ure
Married 15
(10.3)
07
(4.7)
99
(67.3)
08
(5.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
129
(87.8)
Unmarried 02
(1.3)
01
(0.7) 00
01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
02
(01.3)
07
(04.8)
Widow 00
(0)
00
(0)
09
(06.2)
02
(01.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
11
(07.5)
Total 17
(11.6)
08
(05.4)
108
(73.5)
11
(07.5)
01
(0.7)
02
(01.3)
147
(100)
Table No. 6.1.4 (B) : Marital status cross tabulated with employment in
Udupi District
Marital status
of the
respondents
Employment of the respondents
Total
Dail
y w
ager
Agri
cult
ura
l
Lab
ou
r
Hom
emak
er
Sel
f -
emp
loym
ent
Pri
vate
job
Agri
cult
ure
Married 37
(26.4)
15
(10.6)
64
(45.4)
10
(7.1)
03
(2.1)
00
(0)
129
( 91.5)
Unmarried 01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
04
(02.8)
Widow 05
(3.5)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
06
(04.3)
Separated 02
(1.4)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
02
(01.4)
Total 45
(39.9)
16
(11.3)
66
(46.8)
10
(07.1)
04
(02.8)
00
(0)
141
(100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
146
The Tables 6.1.4(A) and 6.1.4(B) cross tabulates the marital status and
employment of the women members of both the districts. Understanding the marital
status of the women members makes it clear, whether the representation was higher under
married or unmarried category. Though widows come under the married category but
since they have lost their husbands they are categorized separately. It is also vital to
know the employment of the women to understand their source of income.
It is evident from Table 6.1.4(A) that majority of the women members in
Chamarajanagara district, i.e., 95.3 % were married and among the married 7.5%
were widows, 4.8% were unmarried. Whereas in Udupi district [Table 6.1.4 (B)]
majority (97.2%) were married, and among them 4.3% were widows and 1.4% were
separated. Whereas unmarried constituted only 2.8%. The earlier studies on the
marital status of women reveals the presence of a large number of married women in
PRIs (MARG, 1997; Panda, 1997; Kaushik, 1997; Govinda Gowda, 1998; Singla,
2007).
From the Tables 6.1.4(A) and 6.1.4(B), it is evident that most of the married
women entered local politics. In country like India, usually unmarried women are not
encouraged to enter politics due to the stigma associated with politics.
With regard to the employment of the women members, majority of the
women members were housewives. The percentage was high 73.5% in
Chamarajanagara district when compared to Udupi district (46.8%). The percentage
of daily wage earners was comparatively high (32.0%) in Udupi district than
Chamarajanagara district (11.6%). It is clear from the above data that majority of the
women members are housewives. This observation is in line with the study conducted
by Pamela Singla. She has found that a large majority of the women members, i.e.,
51 out of 58, were housewives. She also mentioned that the data is a reflection on the
economic dependence of women on men which may lead to curtailing their role in the
decision-making.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
147
Figure – 5 : Annual income of the family (Unequal Distribution of Classification)
The data on the annual income of the women members is shown in Figure 5.
The income is classified on the basis of unequal distribution of classification.
Majority of the women members of both the districts (51.7%) in Chamarajanagara
and (67.4%) in Udupi were having very low income, that is, less than Rs.11000. This
indicates that the annual family income does not seem to be an important factor in the
selection of the Panchayat representatives. Various studies (Ambedkar and Shailaja,
2011, Singla, 2007) have proved this issue.
Table No. 6.1.5 (A) : Type of family cross tabulated with number of family
members in Chamarajanagara District
Type of
family
Number of family members
Total
Tw
o
Th
ree
Fo
ur
Fiv
e
Six
Sev
en
Eig
ht
Nin
e
Ten
an
d
ab
ov
e
Joint 00
(0)
00
(0)
04
(2.7)
12
(8.2)
21
(14.3)
10
(6.8)
05
(3.4)
05
(3.4)
09
(6.1)
66
(44.9)
Nuclear 02
(1.4)
10
(6.8)
32
(21.8)
20
(13.6)
11
(7.5)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
00
(0)
76
(51.7)
Extended 00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
01
(0.7)
04
(2.7)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
5
(3.4)
Total 02
(1.4)
10
(6.8)
36
(24.5)
33
(22.5)
36
(24.5)
10
(6.8)
06
(04.1)
05
(3.4)
09
(6.1)
147
(100)
51.7
26.5
7.5
5.4
2
2
2
0
0.7
0.7
1.4
67.4
10.6
5
4.3
1.4
2.8
2.1
1.4
2.1
2.1
0.7
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
11000 and less
11000 to 15000
15001 to 20000
20001 to 25000
25001 to 30000
30001to 40000
40001 to50000
50001 to 75000
75001 to 100000
100001 to 200000
200001 to300000 Udupi district
Chamarajanagara district
Data Analysis and Interpretation
148
Table No. 6.1.5(B) : Type of family cross tabulated with number of family
members in Udupi District
Type of family
Number of family members
Total
Tw
o
Th
ree
Fou
r
Fiv
e
Six
Sev
en
Eig
ht
Nin
e
Ten
an
d
ab
ove
Joint 00
(0)
01
(0.7)
02
(1.4)
02
(1.4)
03
(2.1)
06
(4.3)
02
(1.4)
01
(0.7)
04
(2.8)
21
(14.8)
Nuclear 07
(4.9)
09
(6.3)
45
(32.2)
30
(21.3)
13
(9.2)
06
(4.3)
01
(0.7)
01
(0.7)
00
(0)
112
(79.5)
Extended 02
(1.4) 00(0) 00(0)
06
(4.2)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
00
(0)
08
(5.7)
Total 09
(6.3)
10
(7.0)
47
(33.6)
38
(26.9)
16
(11.3)
12
(8.6)
03
(2.1)
02
(1.4)
04
(2.8)
141
(100)
The Tables 6.1.5(A) and 6.1.5(B) correlates type of family and number of
family members in both the districts. It is essential to co-relate type of family and
number of family members in the family to understand the relation between the
pattern of family and the number of family members.
India is known to live in the joint family system from ancient times, due to its
agricultural base which requires excess of labour. With the advent of industrialization
and urbanization the traditional joint family system is slowly losing its importance and
nuclear families are replacing the system. The present study supports this statement; it
is evident from Table 6.1.5(A) that in Chamarajanagara district 51.7% belonged to
nuclear families, 44.9% belonged to joint family, and only 3.4% belonged to extended
families. But there was no great difference in the percentage between joint and nuclear
families. As far as the number of family members was concerned majority of the
women members belong to a joint family and had six members in their family whereas
in the nuclear family, majority of them had four members in their family.
With regard to Udupi district, Table 6.1.5(B) shows that a great majority, that
is, 79.5% belonged to nuclear families, 14.8% belonged to joint families, and only
5.7% belonged to extended families. As far as the number of family members is
concerned majority of the women members belonged to a joint family and had seven
members in their family and in the nuclear family, majority of them had four
members in their family.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
149
While co-relating both Chamarajanagara and Udupi district it is found that
comparatively a majority of the women members in Udupi district hail from a nuclear
family. Chamarajanagara is a rural and agricultural based district where people still
prefer to stay in joint families than nuclear families. It is seen that the joint family
system had not totally disintegrated as proved in the study conducted by Nagendra
and Shailaja. Their study revealed that 64% of the women members of the Panchayat
Raj belonged to a joint family. With regard to the number of members in the nuclear
families, both the districts revealed that most of them had four members in their
families.
Figure – 6 : Number of Children in the Family
A glance at the family size/number of children of the women member shows
whether they are following the small family norm or not. Rajvir S. Dhaka (2005) in
his study on the „Emerging Pattern of Grassroots‟ Leadership in Haryana‟ highlighted
that only 16.52% of the elected members had two children, 73.44% of them had
between three to eight children.
In the present study the field data clearly shows that more than 40% of the
women members had two children, i.e., 46.8% in Udupi district and 41.5% in
Chamarajanagara district. The percentage was higher when compared to Rajvir‟s
study. The rest of the women members had three to seven children.
2 1.4
13.6
41.5
26.5
11.6
0.72.72.8
7.18.5
46.8
21.3
8.5
3.50.7 0.7
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
Unmarried No Child One Two Three Four Five Six Seven
Chamarajanagara
district
Udupi district
Data Analysis and Interpretation
150
6.2 : Participation of the respondents in social activities before becoming a
Panchayat member
Table No. 6.2.1: Membership in other organizations before becoming
Grama Panchayat member
Membership
Chamarajanagara district
Udupi district
No. of Respondents (%) No. of Respondents (%)
YES NO Total YES NO Total
NGO membership 05
(03.4) 142
(36.6) 147 (100) 10
(07.1) 131
(92.9)
141 (100)
SHG membership 100
(68.0)
47
(32.0)
147 (100) 54 (38.3)
87 (61.7)
141 (100)
Mahila Mandal membership
04
(02.7)
143
(97.3)
147 (100) 23 (16.3)
118 (83.7)
141 (100)
Temple/Church Committee membership
00
(0)
147
(100)
147 (100) 10 (07.1)
131 (92.9)
141 (100)
SDMC membership 5
(3.4)
142
(96.6)
147 (100) 08 (5.7)
133 (94.3)
141 (100)
Milk Dairy membership 00
(0) 147
(100) 147 (100) 06
(04.2) 135
(95.8) 141 (100)
Table 6.2.1 indicates membership in other organizations prior to Grama
Panchayat membership. This helps in understanding the source of motivation to
become a Panchayat member.
It is clear from the field data that majority of the women members‟ had
membership in Self Help Groups before becoming a member of the Panchayat. The
percentage was high in Chamarajanagara district- 68% than in Udupi district- 38.3%.
Self Help Groups had become an effective platform in bringing the women into the
mainstream. Self Help Groups organize various political awareness activities like the
importance of voting, Grama Sabha, participation of women in politics, etc. The
members of the group motivate the more active members of the group to contest the
Grama Panchayat election. Probably due to this encouragement and motivation a
good number of rural women started entering into local politics.
While co-relating both the districts, i.e., Chamarajanagara and Udupi, the results
show that majority of the women members of Chamarajanagara district had membership
in SHGs as compared to Udupi district. It is revealed that in Udupi district all members
had membership in one or the other organizations as specified in Table 6.2.1.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
151
6.3 Factors Motivating women to contest in the Panchayat election
Table No. 6.2.2 : Source of motivation for women to contest in the Grama
Panchayat election
Sl. No Motivation
Chamarajanagara Udupi
N=147 Rank order
N=141 Rank Order
Score Score
1 Self 3.18 04 5.11 04
2 Husband 7.38 01 6.32 02
3 Children 3.10 5.5 3.46 07
4 Brother/s 3.10 5.5 2.77 08
5 Sister/s 2.73 8.5 2.39 10
6 Relatives 5.02 03 3.87 05
7 Villagers 7.10 02 6.53 01
8 Political Party 3.03 07 5.63 03
9 SHG 2.73 8.5 2.68 09
10 NGO 2.02 10 3.83 06
Table 6.3.1 depicts the information on the source of motivation for the women to
contest in the Grama Panchayat election. It is evident from the above table that in both
the districts majority of the women members were motivated by the villagers to contest in
the election thereby securing 1st rank and the rank score was slightly higher in
Chamarajanagara district where the rank score is 7.10 when compared to Udupi district
where the rank score is 6.53. The respondent‟s husbands‟ occupy second place in the rank
order and the rank score is higher, 7.38 in Chamarajanagara when compared to Udupi
district- 6.32. The third place was occupied by the political parties and the rank score is
higher in Udupi district (5.63) than Chamarajanagara district (3.3). Self motivation
secures 4th place in the rank order and the rank score was higher in Udupi district (5.11)
when compared to Chamarajanagara district (3.18).
Motivation by the NGOs secures 6th
place and the rank score was higher in
Udupi district, that is, 3.83 when compared to Chamarajanagara district, that is, 2.02.
Motivation by the Self Help Groups occupies 9th
place. Though SHGs have not
Data Analysis and Interpretation
152
played a greater role in motivating the women at least some of the women are
motivated by the SHGs which is a positive sign. According to Kaushik and Poojar, it
is no less important to promote women‟s participation through membership of non-
political women‟s organizations and movements, both at the macro-levels and
grassroot level, which are actively assisting women to be economically and socially
secure (Kaushik, Poojary, 1994). The support by brother/s and sister/s was also not
very good and occupies 8th
and 10th
place, respectively.
From the above data it is clear that the major source of motivation for the
women members was from the villagers and next source was their husbands. In a
country like India women, especially rural women, are not allowed to take decisions
independently. The contribution of women is underestimated and neglected in every
sphere of life. It is positive to note that majority of the women are motivated by their
husbands to contest the election but it is difficult to understand the hidden agenda
behind it. It was evident from various studies (Buch, 2001) that majority of the
women members in local politics are rubber stamps in the hands of the male members
of their family. Buch (2011) in her study on „Panchayats and Women’ mentioned that
since the country‟s Constitution has made women participation mandatory, the male
members have discovered the importance of women and encouraged them to stand for
elections leading to assumptions/beliefs in their being only “proxy” and their
husbands being “sarpanch pati” and “pradhan pati” (husband of the chairperson).
Table 6.3.1 also reveals that self motivation to become a Panchayat member
was low; the score is only 3.18 in Chamarajanagara district and 5.11 in Udupi district.
Tyagi and Sinha also found similar observation in their study on „Empowerment of
Rural Women through Panchayats.’ The study highlighted that majority of the men
became Panchayat representatives on their own whereas in the case of women
representatives, the situation was altogether different. It was their family who pushed
the women to become Panchayat representatives. Only one - fifth of the women
decided independently to contest the Panchayat elections.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
153
Table No. 6.3.2 : Reasons for contesting in Grama Panchayat election
Reasons Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
For village development 71(48.3) 65 (46.0)
Service to the people 23(15.6) 23 (16.3)
Husband‟s force 08(05.5) 04(02.8)
Because of reservation 19(12.9) 18(12.9)
Political party force 02(01.4) 07(05.0)
Villagers force 13(08.7) 12(08.6)
Don‟t know 01(0.7) 02(01.4)
Self interest 06(04.1) 08(05.6)
Family members force 02(01.4) 02(01.4)
Forced by SHG member 02(01.4) 00(0)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Table 6.3.2 presents information on the reasons for contesting the Grama
Panchayat election. However, the number of women candidates „contesting‟ elections
for the Lok Sabha has been highly discouraging. While local bodies did see the entry
of women in large numbers, 2.5 million women participated in the first round of the
Panchayat elections - their numbers in the upper elections of governance continue to
be dismal. In the Lok Sabha elections between 1952 and 1996, the percentage of
women contestants remained virtually stagnant at 3.2%. In their success ratio, on the
other hand, there was a definite decline from 43% in 1952 to the lowest ever 6.3% in
1996. Even today, the candidates fielded by different political parties are
overwhelmingly male.
Women account for only 5 to 10 per cent of all candidates across parties and
regions (Basu, 2004). It is evident from the above table that 48.3% of the respondents in
Chamarajanagara district and 46% in Udupi district mentioned that they contested the
election for the purpose of village development. Nagendra and Shailaja‟s study also
revealed a similar observation, i.e., 72% of women Panchayat Raj leaders mentioned
that they contested the election to serve the rural poor (Nagendra and Shailaja, 2011). In
both the districts few of the respondents mentioned that they do not know why they
contested the election. An equal percentage of respondents, that is, 12.9% in both the
districts mentioned that due to reservation they contested the election. The legislation
Data Analysis and Interpretation
154
providing for reservation of one-third seats for women in local self-governing bodies
was enacted in the last decade of the 90s. The Panchayat and Nagar Palika Bill,
embodied in the 73rd
and 74th
Acts ( 243D and 243T, respectively) Amendments to the
Constitution and providing 33% reservation of seats for women in the Panchayat Raj
Institutions in rural areas and municipal bodies in towns and cities, was passed by the
Parliament without controversy in December 1992, during the Narasimha Rao
government. The above mentioned Amendment also enjoins that, from amongst the
seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, not less than one-third
seats shall be reserved for women belonging to the Scheduled Castes, or, as the case
may be, the Scheduled Tribes. Moreover it was stipulated that the seats reserved for
women may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies. In 1994, different states
brought their Panchayat acts in conformity with the Constitution‟s 73rd
and 74th
Amendment Acts, and the system is now believed to be working with a reasonable
degree of success in states like Karnataka, Kerala, and West Bengal, among others.
Hailed as a landmark in the field of decentralized decision-making and grassroots
democracy, it has been widely acknowledged that the 73rd
and 74th
Amendment Acts to
the Constitution constitute, so far, the most effective legislative measure for women‟s
empowerment (Basu, 2004). In this study only 12.9% respondent‟s claim that due to
reservation they have contested the election, majority of the respondents entered the
Grama Panchayat due to reservation.
It is evident from the above data that in both the districts an equal percentage
of respondents have similar reasons for contesting the election.
Table No. 6.3.3 : Reasons for not knowing about the Grama Panchayat before
becoming a member
Reason for not knowing
about the Grama Panchayat
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of Respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Not applicable 28 (19.0) 47 (33.3)
Because of illiteracy 10 (6.8) 17 (12.0)
Not gone out of the home 37 (25.2) 16(11.4)
Lack of awareness 04 (2.7) 09 (6.4)
Not interested 64(43.6) 39(27.7)
Don‟t know 00(0) 11(7.8)
Not made an effort 04(2.7) 02(1.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
155
It is evident from the above table that majority of the respondents were not well
aware about the activities and functions of the Grama Panchayat before becoming
members of the Panchayats. When they were asked about the reasons for not knowing
about the Panchayat, a comparatively higher percentage (43.6%) of the respondents of
Chamarajanagara district than Udupi district (27.7%) mentioned that they were not
interested enough to know about the Panchayat and its activities. A comparatively higher
percentage of respondents of Chamarajanagara (25.2%) district than Udupi district
(11.4%) have mentioned that they have not gone out of the house, so did not know much
about the Panchayat. In a case study (Arun, 1997) conducted in Madhya Pradesh it was
found that in most of the cases women were homemakers, first time entrants into politics,
and most of them illiterate or educated up to primary level. Such social backwardness of
the women does not allow them not to think about the outside world.
In Indian traditional families it is always thought that women are meant to
look after household related activities and they should be loyal to the husband and the
family. So most of the elected women were neither interested nor had ever gone out of
the home to know about the Panchayat.
From the above data it is clear that a comparatively higher (33.3%) percentage
of respondents of Udupi district were aware about the Panchayat and its activities
before becoming Panchayat members.
Table No. 6.3.4 : Source of information about the Grama Panchayat and its
activities after being elected as member
Source of information Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Political Party 14(09.5) 20(14.2)
Villagers 03(02.0) 11(07.8)
SHG 09(06.1 ) 01(00.7)
Grama Panchayat 11(07.5) 05(03.6)
Grama Sabha 01(00.7 ) 01(00.7)
Training 99(67.3) 92(65.2)
Husband 07(04.8) 08(05.7)
By reading 02(01.4) 02(01.4)
Worked as clerk in GP 00(0) 01(00.7)
Son 01(00.7) 00(0)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
156
The respondents, after becoming a member, got information about the Grama
Panchayat from various sources like political party, villagers, Self Help Groups,
Grama Panchayat, Grama Sabha, training, husband, by reading, son, and so on. It is
found from the above data that majority of the respondents both in Chamarajanagara
(67.3%) and Udupi (65.2%) district got the information regarding the Grama
Panchayat through training. Training is crucial for the newly elected members as it
plays a significant role in providing knowledge to them. The training programme
organized by Rural Litigation and Entitlement Kendra (RLEK) Panchayat Rule and
Gender Awareness Training Institute (PRAGATI), Dehradun revealed some
remarkable facets of the functioning of the Panchayat Raj system in Uttaranchal.
About 750 women leaders of Uttaranchal Panchayat Raj bodies have accused the state
government of non-performance on the Panchayat Raj issue. They suspected that the
authorities were marginalizing them. The women leaders have accused the
administration of eroding the spirit of the relevant amendments in the law to help the
bureaucracy dominate the elected bodies. They also criticized the men subjugated to
the bureaucracy‟s attempts to curb them and continue corrupt practices (Times of
India, 2003). On the other hand, a study by Hooja and Hooja, emphasized that it is
not always easy to provide the required training and orientation to district or lower
level functionaries and politicians. The authors suggested that the training should
focus on - (a) providing proper philosophical background for the entire Panchayati
Raj effort; (b) provide some idea of the background of the evolution of thinking and
concepts of district and decentralized planning and implementation in India; (c) make
available to them the results of, and methodologies used for the various types of
district and block level planning tried out in various parts of the country; (d) inform
them about legal administrative measures that exist and are relevant for district
planning and implementation; (e) explain the state level planning structure and
procedures; (f) teach techniques to raise people‟s participation planning and
implementation; (g) teach them some basics of planning and implementation
techniques which could enable them to use their knowledge of the area, its sources,
problems as well as local needs and aspirations, to enable them to prepare local plans
which fit in to the multi level planning system in a manner that helps in country‟s
developmental needs (Hooja and Hooja, 2001).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
157
Table No. 6.3.5 : Family members as Grama Panchayat members
If yes, who?
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Not applicable 124(84.3) 122 (86.7)
Husband 08(05.4) 04 (02.8)
Father-in-law 07(04.8) 03 (02.1)
Mother 00(0) 04 (02.8)
Son- in- law 00(0) 01 (00.7)
Uncle 01(00.7) 04 (02.8)
Father 00(0) 01 (00.7)
Brother 03(02.0) 01 (00.7)
Son 01(00.7) 00 (0)
Brother- in- law 02(01.4) 00 (0)
Grandmother 00(0) 01(00.7)
Co-brother 01(00.7) 00(0)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
In order to assess the political background of the respondents, a question was
asked to the respondents whether their family members served as members in the
Panchayat. Majority of the respondents of both the districts (Chamarajanagara, 84.3%
and Udupi 86.7%) mentioned that nobody in their family had served as a Panchayat
member. It is evident from the above table that majority of the women members
entered Panchayat as new entrants without any political background. This study on
par with the study conducted by Buch (2001) observes that majority of the women
were comparatively younger than the earlier entrants and were predominantly first
generation entrants to public/political life.
Figure – 7 : Opponent in Election
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Male,
25,
17%
Female
, 119,
81%
Unani
mous
selectio
n, 3,
2%
Male,
10, 7%
Female
, 116,
82%
Unani
mous
selectio
n, 15,
11%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
158
It is evident from the above figure that majority of the women members had an
opponent in the election. This is probably because women contested in the reserved
quota. It is also interesting to note that some of the women in both the districts
contested against men. Chakraborty‟s (2001) study reveals that women are
comparatively visible in the local governance structure in South Asia: 20% members
of the local government are women members. In the backdrop of the 73rd
and 74th
Constitutional Amendments in India, one-third of the seats in Panchayats are reserved
for women. The report further noted that in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and
Manipur female representation in local governance structure exceeded the 33% quota.
In the present study also it was observed that women also contested the election in the
general (unreserved) category.
Table No. 6.3.6 : Women members’ opinion towards the present Grama
Panchayat election system
Opinion towards present
election system
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Very good system 47(32.0) 23(16.3)
Good 29(19.7) 71(50.3)
Present system is acceptable 59(40.1) 18(12.8)
Number of changes are required 07(04.8) 24(17.0)
The present system is not good 05(03.4) 05(03.6)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Table 6.3.6 reveals that 32% of Chamarajanagara district and 16.3% of Udupi
district women members mentioned that the present election system was very good.
Majority of women members of Udupi district (50.3%) mentioned that the present
election system was good while in Chamarajanagara district it was 19.7%. Majority
(40.1%) of the women members of Chamarajanagara district mentioned that present
election system was acceptable. Few women members in both the districts
(Chamarajanagara 4.8%, Udupi 17%) opined that a number of changes are required in
the present election system. It is positive to note that women have started thinking
Data Analysis and Interpretation
159
about the Panchayat and its functioning and election procedure. Though most of the
women entered politics without self- motivation and not possessing any literacy skills,
they are now becoming more aware. The Indian Institute of Social Science (2000) in a
study of the Panchayat Raj in Haryana has reviewed the progress of some hundred
elected women in four districts; majority of the elected women members including
younger women were illiterate when elected to office. After serving two years in
office, they felt the need for skill training and also felt that their daughter/s to be
educated in the future.
Table No. 6.3.7 : Reaction of the family members and friends towards your
decision to become a Panchayat member
Reactions
Chamarajanagara Udupi
N=147 Rank order
N=141 Rank order
Score Score
Parents 3.27 4 2.74 7
In-laws 2.68 8 2.36 8
Spouse 4.38 1 4.23 1
Siblings 3.02 7 3.26 4
Children 3.17 6 3.07 6
Friends 3.19 5 3.40 3
Relatives 3.35 3 3.21 5
Neighbours 3.59 2 3.53 2
Frequency X value = percentile=rank
Table 6.3.7 indicates the reaction of the family members and friends towards
the decision to become a Panchayat member. The reaction of the family and friends
are quite important. They are the people who encourage the growth of one‟s life. The
support of closest family members like husband and children indicates their strength
as well as increases their ability. Additional support can also be had from the
husband‟s friends and their children. This ultimately helps to achieve the task.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
160
6.4.1 : Problems faced by women members in relation to their role as members
Table No. 6.4.1: Problems faced in the Grama Panchayat
Problems faced in the
Grama Panchayat
Chamarajanagara Udupi
Yes No Total Yes No Total
Non co-operation by male
members
02
(01.3)
145
(98.7)
147
(100)
05
(03.5)
136
(96.5)
141
(100)
Non co-operation by the
secretary
00
(00)
147
(100)
147
(100)
05
(03.5)
136
(96.5)
141
(100)
Not informing meeting
agenda in advance
03
(02.1)
144
(97.9)
147
(100)
03
(02.1)
138
(97.9)
141
(100)
Protocol respect was not
given
00
(00)
147
(100)
147
(100)
02
(01.4)
139
(98.6)
141
(100)
Late notice for the
meeting
04
(02.7)
143
(97.3)
147
(100)
02
(01.4)
139
(98.6)
141
(100)
Table 6.4.1 clearly brings out the problems faced by the respondents in the
Panchayat. It is evident from the above data that majority of the respondents of both
the districts did not face any problem in the Panchayat. Only 1.3% of the respondents
of Chamarajanagara district and 3.5% of the respondents of Udupi district mentioned
that there was non co-operation by the male members. As for as the non-cooperation
by the secretary is concerned, 3.5% of the respondents of Udupi district mentioned the
problem, 2.1% of respondents of both the districts mentioned that they were not
informed about the meeting agenda in advance, 1.4% of respondents of Udupi district
mentioned that protocol respect was not given to them, and 2.7% of Chamarajanagara
district and 1.4% of Udupi district respondents mentioned that meeting notice was not
given in advance.
From the above table it is found that majority of the respondents did not face
any problem in the Panchayat.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
161
Table No. 6.4.2 : Efforts made to settle the problems faced in the Grama Panchayat
Type of
problems faced
in the Grama
Panchayat
Effort made to settle the
problems
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Efforts made to
settle the non co-
operation by male
members
Not applicable 147 (100) 136(96.5)
Collective effort of women
members 0(0) 05(03.5)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Effort made to
settle the non co-
operation of
secretary
Not applicable 142(96.6) 136(96.5)
Discussed with CEO and changed
the secretary 05(03.4) 01(0.7)
Collective Effort of Members 0(0) 04(02.8)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Effort made to
settle the problem
of not informing
meeting agenda
in advance
Not applicable 144(97.9) 138(97.9)
Discussed in the meeting and
settled down the problem 03(02.1) 03(02.1)
Total 147 (100) 141(100)
Effort made to
settle the problem
of not giving
protocol respect
Not applicable 147(100) 139(98.6)
Discussion in the Grama Panchayat
meeting 0(0) 02(01.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Efforts made to
settle the problem
of giving late
notice for the
meeting
Not applicable 143(97.3) 139(98.6)
Discussed with secretary and
President of Grama Panchayat 04(02.7) 02(01.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Table 6.4.2 reveals the efforts made by the women to settle the problems faced
by them in the Panchayat. As for as the efforts made to settle the problems of non co-
operation by male members was concerned the women made collective efforts to
solve the problem. With regard to the problem of non-cooperation by the secretary, in
both the districts they discussed with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and changed
the secretary and some of the women of Udupi district also made a collective effort to
solve the problem. In relation to settling the problem of not informing meeting agenda
in advance is concerned, in both the districts women have discussed the problem in
the meeting and settled the issue. Women members of both the district also settled the
problem of not giving protocol respect by discussing the issue in the Grama
Panchayat meeting. Few of the women in both the districts were given late notice of
the meeting. In order to solve this problem they discussed it with the secretary and
the President of the Grama Panchayat and settled the problem.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
162
It is clear from the above data that women have taken the initiative to settle the
problems which is a positive sign.
Table No. 6.4.3 : Problems faced by the women
Type of problems
Faced
Chamarajanagara Udupi
Yes No Total Yes No Total
Attending Grama
Panchayat meeting
03
(02.1)
144
(97.9)
147
(100)
06
(04.2)
135
(95.8)
141
(100)
Election canvassing 05
(03.4)
142
(96.6)
147
(100)
06
(04.2)
135
(95.8)
141
(100)
Attending training 05
(03.4)
142
(96.6)
147
(100)
04
(02.8)
137
(97.2)
141
(100)
Attending Programmes 05
(03.4)
142
(96.6)
147
(100)
04
(02.8)
137
(97.2)
141
(100)
To visit the place 06
(04.0)
141
(96.0)
147
(100)
04
(02.8)
137
(97.2)
141
(100)
Initiating Programmes
in the ward
07
(04.7)
140
(95.3)
147
(100)
22
(15.6)
119
(84.4)
141
(100)
Table 6.4.3 reveals that majority of the women members of both the districts
did not express any problem in relation to attending Panchayat meetings, election
canvassing, attending trainings, attending Programmes, to visit the place, initiating
programmes in the ward. Only few of the women members mentioned that they had
problems. The percentage is more or less similar in both the districts.
Figure – 8 : Problems faced in the family after becoming
a Grama Panchayat member
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Yes, 5, 3%
No, 142, 97%
Yes, 8, 6%
No, 133, 94%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
163
Figure 8 presents information on the problems faced by women members after
becoming a Panchayat member. It is evident from the above data that majority of the
respondents of both Chamarajanagara (97%) and Udupi district (94%) did not face any
problem in the family. In the Indian situation women concentrate more on household
activities than on activities outside the house. Women play a crucial role in the
development of child and the whole family. If she spends time outside, the entire
family structure will be weakened and the family will face a lot of problems. She has to
balance both work and family which is a great task. From the above data it was
significant to note that majority of the women did not face any problem in the family,
which means that they could manage both house and Panchayat work. Tyagi and Sinha
mentioned that in addition to the household related work now the women also have to
look after the Panchayat work. Will this create adjustment problems in rural home life?
For this question more than half of the men answered in the positive whereas majority
of the women and government officials did not agree. The women and officials said that
Panchayat work is not a full time job and rural women can very well squeeze time for it.
The study also noted that almost one-third of the women agreed that involvement in the
Panchayat activities will create adjustment problems in the domestic life. In this
particular study however it was observed that majority of the women did not have any
problems in the family after they had become a member of the Panchayat.
Table No. 6.4.4 : Type of problems faced by the respondents in the family After
becoming GP Members
Problem faced
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
respondents (%)
Not applicable 142(96.5) 133(94.3)
Problem to do self employment 02(01.4) 06(04.3)
Childcare and rearing 00(0) 02(01.4)
Unable to concentrate on family matters 02(01.4) 00(0)
Force by the husband to initite
programmes in their ward
01(00.7) 00(0)
Total 147(100) 141(100)
As is evident from Table 6.4.4, only a few respondents faced problems in the
family, mainly due to do self-employment (Chamarajanagara 1.4%, Udupi 4.3%), to
concentrate on family matters (Chamarajanagara 1.4%) and forced by the husband to
initiate programmes in their ward (Chamarajanagara 0.7%).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
164
Figure – 9 : Problems faced while initiating Programme in their ward
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Figure 9 reveals information on the problems faced by the members to initiate
the Programmes in their ward. Majority of the women members from both the
districts mentioned that they have not faced any problem and 5% of the respondents
of Chamarajanagara and 5% from Udupi district mentioned that the secretary did not
co-operate in initiating a programme in their ward. Ambedkar and Shailaja (2011) in
their study mentioned that the principal task of the elected representatives is to
enunciate policy and directions for its implementation. The execution should be left
to the public servant. The public servants should be enabled and encouraged to give
the right advice without fear or favour. Once the decision is taken, there should be no
option left to the public servant to withhold execution. He should implement the
decision faithfully and loyally. The elected representatives should recognize that it is
the right of the officers to offer their advice on the policy and that they are expected to
do so. At the same time, it should also be recognized by the officers that it is well
within the right of the elected preventatives to reject their advice. This particular
study rightly identified the importance of elected representatives in offering their
guidance in implementing the programmes. Krishna (1997) revealed in his study of
Karnataka that in respect of many programmes such as drinking water, family
welfare, women welfare, primary education and health care, women members of the
Panchayats give better guidance. The women Panchayat chairpersons in many places
are doing very well, though their success has not been adequately highlighted by the
media.
Not applica
ble, 140, 95%
Non cooperation
by Secreta
ry, 7, 5%
Not applica
ble, 134, 94%
Non coperation By seceretary, 7,
5%
collection of water tax, 1,
1%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
165
Figure – 10 : Status increased after becoming a GP Member
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
In order to assess the social status of the women members after becoming a
Panchayat member they were asked whether there was an increase in their social
status. Majority (Chamarajanagara and Udupi 81%) of the women members claimed
that their social status has risen after they became a member of the Panchayat.
Naturally the status of the elected representatives increases since they represent their
ward/village. People also consult the Panchayat members in availing various schemes
and benefits, which also gives them a sense of power (Figure -10).
Table No. 6.4.5 : Different positions held and tenure of respondents in the
Grama Panchayat
Positions Number of years
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of
respondents
(%)
No. of
respondents
(%)
Member
One Year 01(00.7) 01(0.7)
Two Year 17(11.5) 01(0.7)
Five Year 127(86.4) 138(97.9)
10 years 01 (0.7) 00(0)
15 years 01 (0.7) 01(0.7)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Yes, 119, 81%
No, 28, 19%
Yes, 114, 81%
No, 27, 19%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
166
Standing Committee
member
Not at all 138(93.9) 114(81.0)
One Year 05(03.4) 16(11.3)
Two Year 01(00.7) 08(05.6)
Three year 03(02.0) 00(0)
Four Year 00(0) 01(0.7)
Five Year 00(0) 02(01.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Standing
Committee President
Not at all 136(92.6) 107(76.1)
One Year 06(04.0) 09(06.3)
Two Year 04(02.7) 20(14.1)
Three year 01(00.7) 04(02.8)
Four Year 00 (0) 01(0.7)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat
President
Not at all 118 (80.3) 104(73.8)
One Year 05(03.4) 04(02.8)
15 months 02(01.4) 00(0)
Two and half Year 22(14.9) 33(23.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Vice President
Not applicable 125(85.1) 133(94.4)
One Year 07(04.7) 02(01.4)
Two Year 15(10.2) 06(04.2)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat
representative
in Taluk Panchayat
Not at all 146(99.3) 138(97.8)
One Year 01(0.7) 02(01.4)
Two Year 00(0) 01(00.7)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat
Representative in
Zilla Panchayat
Not at all 145(98.6) 135(95.8)
One Year 01(0.7) 02(01.4)
Two Year 01(0.7) 03(02.1)
Three Year 00(0) 01(00.7)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
167
Table 6.4.5 reveals information on the different positions held by the members
and number of years of experience with respect to their positions. It is evident from
the above data that majority of the women of both the districts served as members for
five years (Udupi-97.9% and Chamarajanagara-86%). This is proved in the earlier
studies (Nagendra and Shailaja, 2011). An equal percentage (1%) of members of both
the districts served as members for 15 years. This clearly reveals the fact that soon
after the introduction of the 73rd
Constitutional Amendment the women have
contested the election and won it. As far as representation in the Standing Committee
is concerned, only 1.4% of women members of Udupi districts have served for five
years. Few of the women members of both the districts have served as Standing
Committee President. Comparatively a good number of respondents of Udupi district
(14.1%) served for two years as Standing Committee President. Ghosh‟s study on the
representation of women members in the Standing Committees of PRIs in West
Bengal revealed that though large numbers of women were elected to the Panchayat
Raj Institutions in West Bengal they were not given adequate scope to represent
themselves in the different activities of the Panchayat Samitis and Zilla Parishad. A
good number (23.4%) of women members of Udupi district, followed by
Chamarajanagara district (14.9%) served as President for two and half years. In both
the districts, the percentage of women who served as Vice President was not
satisfactory and the maximum number of years served as Vice President is only two
years and the percentage is 10.2% in Chamarajanagara district and 4.2% in Udupi
district. The percentage of women members represented in Taluk and Zilla
Panchayats as Grama Panchayat representative was also low in both the districts.
Table No. 6.4.6 : Ability to manage their positions in the Grama Panchayat
Position Level of
Management
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Member
Good 103(70.2) 101 ( 71.8)
Satisfactory 31(21.0) 32( 22.6)
Poor 13(8.8)` 08(05.6)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Standing Committee
member
Good 07 (04.7) 19(13.4)
Satisfactory 02(01.4) 08(05.6)
Poor 00(0) 00(0)
No chance given 138(93.9) 114(81.0)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
168
Standing Committee
President
Good 08(05.4) 27(19.2)
Satisfactory 03(02.1) 07(04.9)
Poor 00(0) 00(0)
No chance given 136(92.5) 107(75.9)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat President
Good 23(15.6) 28(19.8)
Satisfactory 05(03.4) 02(01.4)
Poor 01(0.7) 07(0.7)
No chance given 118(80.2) 104(78.1)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Vice President
Good 14(9.5) 08(05.6)
Satisfactory 07(04.7) 00(0)
Poor 01(0.7) 00(0)
No chance given 125(85.1) 133(94.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat
representative
in Taluk Panchayat
Good 01(0.7) 01(00.7)
Satisfactory 00(0) 02(01.4)
Poor 00(0) 00(0)
No chance given 146(99.3) 138(97.9)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Grama Panchayat
representative
in Zilla Panchayat
Good 01(0.7) 05(3.5)
Satisfactory 01(0.7) 01(0.7)
Poor 00(0) 00(0)
No chance given 145(98.6) 135(95.8)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
It is clear from the above data that majority of the women members could
manage in a good manner as members of the Grama Panchayat scoring 71.8% in
Udupi district and 70.2% in Chamarajanagara district. Majority of the women
members could manage their position in a good or satisfactory way as Standing
Committee members, Standing Committee Presidents, Grama Panchayat Presidents
and Vice Presidents, representatives in Taluk Panchayat and representative in Zilla
Panchayat. From this it can be understood that if any work is given to women they
are capable of handling it. Therefore, it can be said that the main problem faced by
women is lack of opportunity.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
169
Table No. 6.4.7 : Male Co- Member’s outlook towards women members
Male co- member’s outlook Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Very good Co-operation 37 (25.1) 80 (57.5)
Co-operative 108 (73.5) 57 (40.4)
Natural 02 (01.4) 02 (01.4)
Neglected 00(0) 01 (0.7)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
It is evident from the above table that in Udupi district, majority (57.5%) of
the women members get very good cooperation from their male co-members and in
Chamarajanagara district majority (73.5%) of the respondents mentioned that their
male co-members are cooperative. It is clear from the above data that majority of the
women members of both the district are getting cooperation from their male co-
members which is a positive sign.
Figure – 11 : Respondents able to exercise their legitimate power
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
In a country like India where tradition still continues to be strong it becomes
difficult for women to take decisions and exercise power. It is significant to note
from the study that majority of the women members of both, Chamarajanagara and
Udupi districts, mentioned that they were able to exercise their legitimate power but
the percentage was slightly higher (77%) in Chamarajanagara district (Figure-11) .
Yes , 113, 77%
Sometime , 30,
20%
No , 4, 3%
Yes, 73, 52%
Sometime, 62,
44%
No, 6, 4%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
170
Table No. 6.4.8 : Reasons for their inability to exercise their legitimate power
Reasons
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of Respondents
(%)
No. of Respondents
(%)
Not applicable 143(97.2) 135(95.8)
All the members do not agree with
our opinion 01(0.7) 04(02.8)
Don‟t know much about Panchayat
procedure 02(01.4) 01(0.7)
Son takes care of all the work 01(0.7) 00(0)
Non co-operation 00(0) 01(0.7)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
Few of the respondents mentioned that they were not able to exercise their
legitimate power, citing reasons for their inability as follows. All the members do not
agree with their opinion, they are not aware about the Panchayat procedures, son takes
care of all the work, and non co-operation by the members.
6.5 : To study the Strategies adopted by the Elected Women Representatives in
Implementing Development Programmes
Figure – 12 : Availability of guidance from the Grama Panchayat officials
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
For the smooth functioning of the Panchayat, there should be co-operation
between the officials and the people representatives which is reflected in the present
study. Majority of the women members of both the districts mentioned that they get
guidance from the Panchayat officials. The percentage is slight higher in
Yes , 141, 96%
No , 6, 4%
Yes , 133, 94%
No , 8, 6%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
171
Chamarajanagara (96%) as compared to Udupi district (94%) (Figure.12). Nagendra
and Shailaja in their study mentioned that nearly two-thirds of the women Panchayat
Raj leaders expressed that the officials were responsive. The authors also highlighted
that the credibility of a public administrator depends to a large extent on his
responsiveness in giving a sympathetic hearing to the public and sorting out their
problems (Figure 12).
Figure – 13 : Weightage given by the co-members to respondent’s suggestions
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Suggestions by the people‟s representative are crucial in implementing any
village development project. Figure 13 tabulates that majority of the women members of
both the districts expressed that their suggestions are considered by the co-members. The
percentage was higher in Chamarajanagara district (76%) when compared to Udupi
district (69%) (Figure.13). It is also significant to note that some of the member‟s
suggestions are still not considered. Though the percentage was low it cannot be ignored.
Figure – 14 : Regularity in attending Grama Panchayat Meeting
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Yes , 112, 76%
Sometime , 29,
20%
No , 6, 4%
Yes, 97, 69%
Sometime, 42,
30%
No, 2, 1%
Yes , 136, 93%
Sometime ,
11, 7%
Yes, 134, 95%
Sometime, 7,
5%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
172
Figure 14 depict data on whether the women members attend meetings
regularly or not. In many studies (Buch, 2000; Stephan and Sekaran, 2001; MAARG,
1997) women‟s attendance in the meetings is taken as a common indicator to assess
the participation of women. The study conducted by Khan and Ayeshar revealed that
rural women participation in political institutions shows that they rarely attend the
meetings of the Grama Panchayats. Even when they do attend they do not participate
in the deliberations. The study has shown that it was difficult for women members to
attend the meetings regularly because of their domestic commitments and because of
long distance to be covered. But the data shown in the figure reveals that majority of
the women of both the districts (Chamarajanagara 93%, Udupi 95%) attend the
meetings regularly. This finding is in line with the study conducted by Buch (2000).
As per Buch‟s findings, two-thirds of women attend the meetings.
Table No. 6.5.1 : Response received in the meetings
Receiving good response for
the questions raised in the
meetings
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of
Respondents (%)
No. of
Respondents (%)
Yes 124 (84.4) 123(87.2)
No 23 (15.6) 06(04.3)
Sometimes 00(0) 12(08.5)
Never asked questions 00(0) 00(0)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
When women start to raise questions at home or in any meeting, it is one of the
stages of empowerment. If they get a proper response to their questions it can be
understood that they are identified in the Grama Panchayat. It is revealed from Table
6.5.1 that majority (Chamarajanagara 84.4%, Udupi 87.2%) of the women members
get a good response for the questions raised by them.
Figure – 15 : Active participation in the meeting
CHAMARAJANAGARA UDUPI
Yes , 107, 73%
sometime ,
32, 22%
No , 8, 5%
Yes, 124, 88%
Sometime, 16,
11%
No, 1, 1%
Data Analysis and Interpretation
173
Figure 15 depicts that majority of the respondents from both the districts took
an active participation in the meeting. Very negligible number of respondents are not
taking an active part may be due to some reason. Otherwise all the respondents have
fulfilled their goal by participating in the Panchayat meeting. In comparison, in Udupi
district majority (88%) of the respondents took active participation whereas
Chamarajanagara had only 73%.
Table No. 6.5.2 : Programmes implemented in the ward
Programmes implemented
in the ward
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of Respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Housing
Yes No Total Yes No Total
Number 63 84 147 24 117 141
Percentage 42.8 57.2 100 17.0 83.0 100
Drainage Number 39 108 147 24.0 117.0 141
Percentage 26.5 73.5 100 17.0 83.0 100
Village sanitation
programme
Number 52 95 147 44.0 97.0 141
Percentage 35.4 64.6 100 31.2 68.8 100
Village cleaning
programme
Number 24 123 147 10.0 131.0 141
Percentage 16.3 83.7 100 7.1 92.9 100
Primary Health
Center
Number 5 142 147 11.0 130.0 141
Percentage 3.4 96.6 100 7.8 92.2 100
Bus stand Number 2 145 147 0 141 141
Percentage 1.4 98.6 100 0 100 100
Road light Number 77 23 147 32.0 109.0 141
Percentage 84.3 15.7 100 22.7 77.3 100
Road repair Number 60 87 147 81.0 60.0 141
Percentage 59.2 40.8 100 57.4 42.6 100
Drinking water Number 98 49 147 78.0 63.0 141
Percentage 66.7 33.3 100 55.3 44.7 100
Electricity Number 34 113 147 33.0 108.0 141
Percentage 23.2 76.8 100 23.4 76.6 100
Small bridge Number 8 139 147 7.0 134.0 141
Percentage 5.4 94.6 100 5.0 95.0 100
Anganawadi Number 5 142 147 8.0 133.0 141
Percentage 3.4 96.6 100 5.7 94.3 100
Data Analysis and Interpretation
174
School building Number 6 141 147 0.0 141.0 141
Percentage 4.1 95.9 100 0.0 100.0 100
Literacy Number 11 136 147 1.0 140.0 141
Percentage 7.5 92.5 100 0.7 99.3 100
Farm pond Number 4 143 147 2.0 139.0 141
Percentage 2.7 97.3 100 1.4 98.6 100
Tank desilting Number 13 134 147 4.0 137.0 141
Percentage 8.8 91.2 100 2.8 97.2 100
Subsidy to SHG Number 1 146 147 0.0 141.0 141
Percentage 0.7 99.3 100 0.0 100.0 100
Library
development
Number 00 147 147 4.0 137.0 141
Percentage 00 100 100 2.8 97.2 100
Table 6.5.2 reveals information about the different programmes implemented
by the members in their respective ward. The Eleventh Schedule of Article 243G
provides power, authority, and responsibilities to the Panchayats subject to the
provisions of the Constitution that the Legislature of a State may, by law, endow as
may be necessary to enable them to function as institutions of self government; and
such laws may contain provisions for the devolution of powers and responsibilities
upon the Panchayats, at the appropriate level, subject to such conditions as may be
specified therein, with respect to -
1) The preparation of plans for economic development and social justice;
2) The implementation of schemes for economic development and social justice
as may be entrusted to them including those in relation to the matters listed in
the Eleventh Schedule (Article 243G in the Constitution of India, 1949).
The Constitution (Seventy–third Amendment) Act 1992 in its Eleventh
Schedule (Article 243G) has given certain provisions to help implement the twenty-
nine different programmes. They are - 1) Agriculture, including agriculture extension,
2) Land improvement, implementation of land reforms, land consolidation and soil
conservation 3) Minor irrigation, water management and watershed development, 4)
Animal Husbandry, dairy and poultry, 5) Fisheries, 6) Social forestry and farm
forestry, 7) Minor forest produce, 8) Small scale industries including food processing
industries, 9) Khadi, village and cottage industries, 10) Rural housing, 11) Drinking
water, 12) Fuel and Fodder, 13) Roads, culverts, bridges, ferries, waterways and other
means of communication, 14) Rural electrification, including distribution of
Data Analysis and Interpretation
175
electricity, 15) Non-conventional energy sources, 16) Poverty alleviation programme,
17) Education, including primary and secondary schools, 18) Technical training and
vocational education, 19) Adult and non-formal education, 20) Libraries, 21) Cultural
activities, 22) Markets and fairs, 23) Health and sanitation, including hospitals,
primary health centers and dispensaries, 24) Family welfare, 25) Women and child
development, 26) Social welfare, including welfare of the handicapped and mentally
retarded, 27) Welfare of the weaker section and in particular of the Scheduled Castes
and Scheduled Tribes, 28) Public distribution system, and 29) Maintenance of
community assets (Mohanpuria, 1993).
As per the 11th
schedule of the Constitution (73rd
Amendment Act) there are lots
of ways for the Panchayat members to implement developmental projects. It is evident
from Table 4.140, that majority of the women members could not implement any
programmes. There were various obstacles in implementing the programmes, but major
problem was the unwillingness of the women members. Majority of the women
members could provide drinking water to their ward. The percentage of women who
availed of the drinking water scheme for their ward was 66% in Chamarajanagara and
55.3% in Udupi district. As far as the road repair project was concerned, 59.2% women
members of Chamarajanagara and 57.4% of Udupi district availed the scheme for their
ward. The housing scheme was availed by 42.8% of the women members of
Chamarajanagara district and 31% of the women members of Udupi district. A majority
(84.3%) of the women members of Chamarajanagara implemented the road light
project but the percentage of Udupi district was very low, i.e., 22.7%.
Table No. 6.5.3 : Frequency of visiting the ward
Frequency of visiting the ward Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Every day 76 (51.7) 00(0)
Once a week 23 (15.6) 23(16.3)
Every fifteen days 03(02.0) 20(14.2)
Once in a month 30(20.4) 55(39.0)
Once in six months 08(05.4) 00(0)
Once in a year 06(04.1) 00(0)
Not at all 01(0.7) 01(0.7)
People are coming to my home 00(0) 08(05.7)
Resident of the same ward 00(0) 34(24.1)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
176
Members‟ visiting their ward is very essential because thereby they come to know
about what is happening in their ward and it also helps in understanding the problems and
the progress taking place in their ward. As for as Chamarajanagara district is concerned a
good number (51.7%) of them visit their ward every day, but in Udupi district no woman
member visited the ward. In Udupi district 39% of the women members visit their ward
once in a month. In both the districts, one member in each of them does not visit the
ward at all. 5.4% of the women members of Chamarajanagara district visit the ward once
in six months and 4.1% visit once in a year.
Table No. 6.5.4 : Conducting regular ward meetings
Regular ward meetings
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
N=147(100) N=141 (100)
Yes 104(70.7) 90(63.8)
No 43(29.2) 51(36.2)
Total 147 (100) 141(100)
Majority of the women members of Chamarajanagara district (70.7%)
followed by Udupi district (63.8%) said that they conducted ward meetings on a
regular basis. The percentage of women members not conducting regular ward
meetings is 29.2% in Chamarajanagara district and 36.2% in Udupi district.
Table No. 6.5.5 : Number of members attending Grama Sabha Meeting
Number of members attending
Grama Sabha meetings
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of Respondents
(%)
No. of Respondents
(%)
Less than 100 32 (21.8) 50(35.5)
101 – 150 39 (26.5) 29(20.6)
151 – 200 22 (15.0) 22(15.6)
201 – 250 29 (19.7) 07(05.0)
251 – 300 01(0.7) 11(07.8)
301 – 350 08(05.4) 03(02.1)
351 – 400 01(0.7) 02(01.4)
401 and above 09(06.1) 17(12.1)
No meetings 06(04.1) 00(0)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
177
It is understood from Table 6.4.9 that, 35.5% women members in Udupi
district and 21.8% in Chamarajanagara district mentioned that usually there will be
less than hundred people to attend the meeting of the Grama Sabha. Only 6.1% in
Chamarajanagara district and 12.1% in Udupi district told that more than 400 people
attend the Grama Sabha. It was also significant to note that in Chamarajanagara
district, 4.1% of the women members said that they do not conduct the Grama Sabha
meetings at all.
Table No. 6.5.6 : Do you feel 33% reservation is good enough in Panchayat
Reservation is enough Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Enough 23 (15.6) 47(33.3)
Not enough 124 (84.4) 92(65.3)
Reservation not required 00(0) 01(0.7)
Don't know 00(0) 01(0.7)
Total 147(100) 141 (100)
The marginalized sections of the society like the SCs, STs, and women require
reservation in order to represent themselves in main stream society. Misra (1993)
mentioned that reservation has enhanced the self-esteem, self-confidence, and social
prestige of women, significantly. And it has also enabled to them to take up the role of
leadership in the local bodies. The dominant and aspiring women have grasped and
grabbed these political leadership roles at the local level as a “stepping stone” for a
bigger political career at the State or Central level in the long run. We are emphatic
that the Panchayat Raj will produce a long line- up of political leadership. Majority of
the women members of Chamarajanagara district (84.4%) followed by Udupi district
(65.3%) expressed that the reservation was not sufficient. It is clear from the above
data that women are becoming aware of the fact that just 33% of reservation is not
enough for their equal representation.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
178
Table No. 6.5.7 : Reservation Required
Required reservation Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
35% 01 (0.7) 00
40% 18(12.2) 07(05.0)
45% 00 01(0.7)
50% 115 (78.2) 83(58.8)
75% 00 01(0.7)
Not applicable 13 (08.8) 49(34.8)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Table 6.5.7 presents information on the women members‟ perception about
how much reservation is required in local politics. Majority of the women members
of Chamarajanagara district (78.2%) followed by Udupi district (58.8%) mentioned
that 50% reservation was required. In Bihar, in the year 2006, a second term election
of the new PRIs was held on time after the promulgation of the ordinance, namely,
„The Bihar Panchayat Raj Ordinance, 2006,’ by the Nitish Kumar Government. The
most striking feature of this ordinance is that it made provision for 50% reservation
for women, in general. This type of reservation is the first of its kind in the whole of
the country thereby making it both “historic and revolutionary”. The same percentage
(50%) of reservation is expected by the women members under this study. If the
initiative taken by the Bihar Government during 2006 is followed in all states of the
country, women participation in politics will definitely be higher and they will assume
leadership positions.
Table No. 6.5.8 : Interested to contest in the next Panchayat Election
Contesting for next
election
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents (%) No. of respondents (%)
Yes 102(69.4) 88(62.4)
No 43 (29.3) 52(36.9)
Not decided 02 (01.4) 01(0.7)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
Data Analysis and Interpretation
179
It is evident from the above table that majority of the women members in
Chamarajanagara district (69.4%) followed by Udupi district (62.4%) expressed that
they would like to contest the next Panchayat election. It is positive to note that
though majority of the women are first time entrants to the Panchayat and without any
political background, they still desire to contest the next election. This result is in line
with the study conducted by Nagendra and Shailaja (2011). The result of the study
indicated that majority of the women members would like to contest for the post of
Sarpanch of the Grama Panchayat or for the membership of the Panchayat Samiti. The
Seventy-third Constitutional Amendment Act has provided a platform for the women
to enter politics and it is a “stepping stone” for the marginalized section of the society
like women. Reservation has created a new opening for women like:
1. It has created a place for atleast a few women committed to the cause who
even after working for the party for over 30 years would not have dreamt of
contesting an election. In the case of many such activists their incapacity to
bear the election expenditure did not prove to be a deterrent in securing their
candidature or their success in the election. This alone justifies the reservation,
whatever the other side effects might be.
2. It has widened the base of our democracy by facilitating the representation of
hitherto under-represented section of our society.
3. It clearly legitimises and asserts the role of women as partners in the public
sphere, particularly in operating formal government structures. This will
encourage more women to take up the political life as their career or mission,
and shape their priorities accordingly.
4. It has increased the self-esteem, confidence, and motivation of the women
activists.
5. It has started creating cross-hierarchies that will have the potential of
challenging the hierarchies of patriarchy in the long run.
6. It has initiated the process of empowerment in the political sphere that is liable
to get reflected in all other spheres as well (Nanivadekar, 1998).
Data Analysis and Interpretation
180
Table No. 6.5.9 : Reasons for not contesting the next election
Contesting for next election
Chamarajanagara Udupi
No. of respondents
(%)
No. of respondents
(%)
Not applicable 122(83.0) 91(64.5)
Due to household work 08(05.4) 07(05.0)
Family problems 09(06.1) 11(07.8)
To give opportunity to others 03(02.0) 06(04.3)
Due to job(work) pressure 05(03.4) 02(01.4)
Not interested 00 12(08.5)
Health problems 00 03(02.1)
Left the village(Marriage) 00 01(00.7)
People have not accepted 00 05(03.5)
People are not happy with my work 00 01(00.7)
Party politics 00 02(01.4)
Total 147 (100) 141 (100)
The women who do not want to contest the next election have expressed
various reasons like household chores (Chamarajanagara 5.4% , Udupi 5%), family
problems (Chamarajanagara 6.1%, Udupi 7.8%), to give opportunity to others
(Chamarajanagara 2%, Udupi 4.3%), due to work pressure (Chamarajanagara 3.4%,
Udupi1.4%), not interested (Udupi 1.4%), health problems (Udupi 2.1%), marriage
( Udupi 0.7%), people have not accepted (Udupi 3.5%), people are not happy with
the work of the member (0.7%). In India women play a crucial role in family
development. The Indian mentality is such that women should take care of all the
household activity so they are not free from the clutches of the family. This prevents
the women from concentrating on any activity outside the house.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
181
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Testing of Hypotheses
183
TESTING OF HYPOTHESES
In the following section, the Null Hypotheses have been tested by presentation
of data in a tabular form using the Chi-square test.
Hypothesis 7.1
The independent variable education has no association with the dependent
variable participation, by the elected women representatives of the Grama
Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 NGO
Membership
Chamarajanagar 11.563 6 .072 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 9.345 6 .155 Non-
significant Accepted
2 SHG
Membership
Chamarajanagar 7.957 6 .241 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 11.577 6 .072 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Mahila Mandal
Membership
Chamarajanagar 5.977 6 .426 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 11.952 6 .63 Non-
significant Accepted
4
Temple/Church
Committee
Membership
Chamarajanagar -- -- -- -- --
Udupi 11.866 6 .065 Non-
significant Accepted
5 SDMC
Membership
Chamarajanagar 2.419 6 .877 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 8.135 6 .228 Non-
significant Accepted
6 Milk Diary
Membership
Chamarajanagar 7.279 6 .296 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi -- -- -- -- --
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in both the districts
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between education
and the selected variable participation, of the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively backward)
and Udupi (developed).
Testing of Hypotheses
184
It is found that the variable education has no association with the variable
participation, viz., NGO, SHG, Mahila Mandal and Temple/Church committee, and
Milk Diary membership in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi (except
the Temple/Church committee membership in Chamarajanagar and the Milk Diary
membership in Udupi). The result indicates the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
The reason for the non-association of the educational background of the
elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats is that the majority of the
women are educated only to the primary level. Very few women representative have
completed their graduation. Hence, for them their educational background has no
relation with their participation in local organisations.
Hypothesis 7. 2
The independent variable education has no association with the dependent variable
motivating factors, by the elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 Self -motivation
Chamarajanagar 127.970 48 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 44.647 36 .153 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Husband motivation
Chamarajanagar 71.457 36 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 38.559 36 .355 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Children motivation
Chamarajanagar 90.342 42 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 42.808 36 .202 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Brother/s motivation
Chamarajanagar 92.458 36 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 42.592 36 .209 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Sister/s motivation
Chamarajanagar 81.331 36 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 52.818 42 .122 Non-
significant Accepted
6 Relatives motivation
Chamarajanagar 97.869 42 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 58.954 42 .043 Significant Rejected
7 Villagers motivation
Chamarajanagar 64.403 36 .003 Significant Rejected
Udupi 76.749 54 .023 Significant Rejected
8 Political Party motivation
Chamarajanagar 158.582 48 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 38.810 42 .612 Non-
significant Accepted
9 SHG motivation
Chamarajanagar 192.003 48 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 60.756 36 .006 Significant Rejected
10 NGO’s motivation
Chamarajanagar 24.135 24 .454 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 17.342 12 .137
Non-significant
Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
185
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully rejected in Chamarajanagar district, but
partially rejected in Udupi district.
Alternate Hypotheses
Education has a positive correlation with the motivation factors of the elected
women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
Education has a partial positive impact on the motivational factors on the
elected women representatives in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between
Education and the selected variable Motivating Factors, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed). It is found that the variable Education
has association with motivating factors such as relatives, villagers, and SHG in both
the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi. Thus, the finding calls for a rejection
of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable education has association with self-motivation, husband’s motivation,
children’s motivation, brother/s motivation, sister/s motivation, and motivation of
political party to the elected women representatives. Thus, the finding calls for a
rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), the variable education has no
relation to the motivating factors such as self- motivation, husband’s motivation,
children’s motivation, brother/s motivation, sister/s motivation, motivation by
political party, and NGO motivation. Thus, the observation calls for an acceptance of
the null hypothesis.
In Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward) too, it is found that the
variable education has no relation to the NGOs motivation in the case of the elected
women representatives of the Grama Panchayats. Thus, the result calls for an
acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
186
Hypothesis 7.3
The independent variable education has no association with the dependent
variable problems faced, by the elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 Non co-operation by the male members
Chamarajanagar 4.153 6 .656 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 10.636 12 .560 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Non co-operation by secretary
Chamarajanagar 3.171 6 .787 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 7.416 6 .284 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Not informed agenda for the meeting
Chamarajanagar 20.137 6 .003 Significant Rejected
Udupi 7.416 6 .284 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect was not given
Chamarajanagar 12.875 6 .045 Significant Rejected
Udupi 3.909 6 .689 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for the meeting
Chamarajanagar 9.26 6 .141 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 2.654 6 .851 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is mostly accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
fully accepted in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between
Education and the selected variable problems faced, by the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable education has no association with the problems
faced such as non co-operation by the male members, non co-operation by the
secretary, and late notice for the meeting, to the elected women representatives in
both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi. Thus, the finding calls for an
acceptance of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable education has association with not informed agenda for the meeting and
protocol respect was not given, to the elected women representatives. This calls for
the rejection of the null hypothesis. In the case of Udupi district (developed), the
variable education has no relation with the variable of problems faced such as not
informed agenda for the meeting and protocol respect was not given. This result calls
for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
187
Hypothesis 7.4
The independent variable education has no association with the dependent
variable strategies adopted to solve problems, by the elected women representatives
of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-
operation by
the male
members
Chamarajanagar 4.153 6 .656 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 9.052 6 .171 Non-
significant Accepted
2
Non co-
operation by
secretary
Chamarajanagar 10.699 12 .555 Non -
significant Accepted
Udupi 6.212 12 .905 Non -
significant Accepted
3
Not informed
agenda for
the meeting
Chamarajanagar 20.137 6 .003 Significant Rejected
Udupi 22.456 18 .212 Non -
significant Accepted
4
Protocol
respect was
not given
Chamarajanagar 12.875 6 .045 Significant Rejected
Udupi 3.606 6 .689 Non -
significant Accepted
5
Late notice
for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 9.626 6 .141 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 2.654 6 .851 Non -
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is mostly accepted in Chamarajanagar district
and fully accepted in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find an association between Education and
the selected variable strategies adopted to resolve the problems, by the elected
women representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz.,
Chamarajanagar (relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Education has no association with the strategies
adopted to resolve the problems such as Non co-operation by the male members,
Non co-operation by the secretary, and Late notice for the meeting to the elected
women representatives in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi. Thus,
the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
188
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable education has association with not informed agenda for the meeting and
protocol respect was not given to the elected women representatives. Thus, the result
calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), the variable education has no relation to
the variable of problems faced such as not informed agenda for the meeting and protocol
respect was not given. Thus, the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
All issues discussed in various forums and the problems identified have been
affectively solved and no issue has been kept pending before the tenure of their
membership is completed.
Hypothesis 7.5
The independent variable caste groups/categories have no association with
the dependent variable participation, by the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 NGO
Membership
Chamarajanagar 9.152 7 .242 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 15.175 7 .034 Significant Rejected
2 SHG
Membership
Chamarajanagar 11.078 7 .135 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 12.722 7 .079 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Mahila Mandal
Membership
Chamarajanagar 3.309 7 .855 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 17.161 7 .016 Significant Rejected
4
Temple/Church
Committee
Membership
Chamarajanagar -- -- -- -- --
Udupi 8.464 7 .293 Non-
significant Accepted
5 SDMC
Membership
Chamarajanagar 3.700 7 .814 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 4.873 7 .675 Non-
significant Accepted
6 Milk Diary
Membership
Chamarajanagar 2.804 7 .903 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi -- -- -- -- --
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
189
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between caste
groups/category and the selected variable participation, of elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable caste groups/categories has no relation to the
variable participation, viz., NGO, SHG, Mahila Mandal and Temple/Church
committee, and Milk Diary membership in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
and Udupi (except for the Temple/Church committee membership in Chamarajanagar
and the Milk diary membership in Udupi district). Thus, the result calls for the
acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.6
The independent variable caste groups/categories have no association with
the dependent variable motivating factors, by the elected women representatives of
the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 Self -motivation Chamarajanagar 163.149 56 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 52.309 42 .132 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Husband motivation
Chamarajanagar 105.657 42 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 39.005 42 .603 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Children motivation
Chamarajanagar 157.020 49 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 60.326 42 .033 Significant Rejected
4 Brother/s motivation
Chamarajanagar 73.139 42 .002 Significant Rejected
Udupi 45.945 42 .132 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Sister/s motivation
Chamarajanagar 83.879 42 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 41.127 49 .781 Non-
significant Accepted
6 Relatives motivation
Chamarajanagar 147.464 49 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 114.394 49 .000 Significant Rejected
7 Villagers motivation
Chamarajanagar 91.195 42 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 82.470 63 .050 Non -
significant Accepted
8 Political Party motivation
Chamarajanagar 180.179 56 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 87.365 49 .001 Significant Rejected
9 SHG motivation
Chamarajanagar 191.647 56 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 47.048 42 .273 Non-
Significant Accepted
10 NGO’s motivation
Chamarajanagar 90.960 28 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 155.772 14 .000 Significant Rejected
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
190
Result : The Null Hypothesis is completely rejected in Chamarajanagar district
and partially accepted in Udupi district.
Alternate Hypotheses
Groups/categories have a positive correlation with the motivation factors of the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
Groups/categories have a partial positive impact on the motivational factors on
the elected women representatives in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between Caste
groups/category and the selected variable motivating factors, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Caste Category has association with the
motivating factors such as children, relatives, political party members, and NGO’s to
the elected women representatives in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and
Udupi. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), the variable Caste groups /
Category has no relation to the motivating factors such as self motivation,
husband’s motivation, brother/s motivation, sister/s motivation, villagers, and SHG’s
motivation. Thus, the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
It is also found that the variable caste category has an association with the
motivating factors such as self-motivation, husband motivation, brother/s
motivation, sister/s motivation, villagers and SHG’s motivation in Chamarajanagar
(relatively backword). Thus, the result calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.7
The independent variable caste groups / categories have no association with
the dependent variable problems faced, by the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
Testing of Hypotheses
191
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 Non co-operation
by the male
members
Chamarajanagar 12.698 7 .080 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 25.526 14 .030 Significant Rejected
2 Non co-operation
by the secretary
Chamarajanagar 37.544 7 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 5.875 7 .554 Non-
significant Accepted
3
Not informed
agenda for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 12.448 7 0.87 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 9.529 7 .217 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect
was not given
Chamarajanagar 1.964 7 .962 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.669 7 .817 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 36.365 7 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 3.012 7 .884 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is partially accepted in Chamarajanagar district
and mostly accepted in Udupi district.
Alternate Hypothesis
Groups/categories have a partial positive impact on the problems faced by the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between Caste
groups/category and the selected variable problems faced, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed). It is found that the variable Caste
Category has an association with the problems faced such as non co-operation by
the secretary and late notice for the meeting at Chamarajanagar district (relatively
backward); Non co -operation by male members at Udupi district (developed). Thus,
the result calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), the variable caste groups/category
have no relation with the problems faced such as non co-operation by the secretary,
not informed agenda for the meeting, protocol respect was not given, and late notice
for the meeting. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis. It is
Testing of Hypotheses
192
also found that the variable caste category has an association with the problems
faced such as non co-operation by the male members, not informed agenda for the
meeting, and protocol respect was not given in Chamarajanagar (relatively backward).
Thus, the result calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.8
The independent variable caste groups / categories have no association with
the dependent variable strategies adopted to solve problems, by the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-operation
by the male
members
Chamarajanagar 12.698 7 .080 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 20.614 7 .004 Significant Rejected
2 Non co-operation
by the secretary
Chamarajanagar 52.271 14 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 7.406 14 .918 Non -
significant Accepted
3
Not informed
agenda for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 12.448 7 .087 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 29.558 21 .101 Non -
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect
was not given
Chamarajanagar 1.964 7 .962 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.669 7 .817 Non -
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for
the meeting
Chamarajanagar 36.365 7 .000 Significant Accepted
Udupi 3.012 7 .884 Non -
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is partly accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
Alternate Hypothesis
Groups/categories have a partial positive impact on the problems faced by the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between Caste
groups/category and the selected variable problems faced, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
Testing of Hypotheses
193
It is found that the variable Caste/Category has an association with the problems
faced such as non co-operation by the secretary and late notice for the meeting at
Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward); Non co-operation by the male members
at Udupi district (developed). Thus, the result calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), the variable Caste/Category groups
have no relation to the problems faced such as non co-operation by the secretary, not
informed agenda for the meeting, protocol respect was not given and late notice for
the meeting, respectively. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null
hypothesis. It is also found that the variable Caste/Category has association with the
problems faced such as non co-operation by the male members, not informed agenda
for the meeting, and protocol respect was not given in Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward). Thus, the result calls for the rejection of the null hypothesis.
All the issues discussed in various forums and the problems identified have
been affectively solved by not keeping any issue pending before the tenure of their
membership is complete.
Hypothesis 7.9
The independent variable marital status has no association with the dependent
variable participation, by the elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 NGO Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.366 2 .505 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 1.001 3 .801 Non-
significant Accepted
2 SHG Membership
Chamarajanagar 3.497 2 .174 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 1.688 3 .640 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Mahila Mandal Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.958 2 .376 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 6.219 3 .101 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Temple/Church Committee Membership
Chamarajanagar -- -- -- -- --
Udupi 1.220 3 .748 Non-
significant Accepted
4 SDMC Membership
Chamarajanagar .722 2 .697 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 1.001 3 .801 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Milk Diary Membership
Chamarajanagar .783 2 .676 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi -- -- -- -- --
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
194
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar and Udupi
district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between Marital
Status and the selected variable participation, of the elected women representatives
of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Marital Status has no relation to the variable of
participation, viz., NGO, SHG, Mahila Mandal and Temple/Church committee and
Milk Diary membership in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi (except
for the Temple/Church committee membership in Chamarajanagar and the Milk Diary
membership in Udupi). Thus the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.10
The independent variable Marital status has no association with the
dependent variable motivating factors, by the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 Self -
motivation
Chamarajanagar 7.780 16 .955 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 15.261 18 .644 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Husband
motivation
Chamarajanagar 49.913 12 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 12.570 18 .816 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Children
motivation
Chamarajanagar 33.658 14 .002 Significant Rejected
Udupi 10.918 18 .898 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Brother/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 33.001 12 .001 Significant Rejected
Udupi 40.514 18 .002 Significant Rejected
5 Sister/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 42.517 12 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 35.009 21 .028 Significant Rejected
6 Relatives
motivation
Chamarajanagar 16.481 14 .285 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 26.292 21 .196 Non-
Significant Accepted
Testing of Hypotheses
195
7 Villagers
motivation
Chamarajanagar 13.553 12 .330 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 18.683 27 .881 Non-
Significant Accepted
8
Political
Party
motivation
Chamarajanagar 13.858 16 .609 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 7.284 21 .998 Non-
significant Accepted
9 SHG
motivation
Chamarajanagar 27.416 16 .037 Significant Rejected
Udupi 7.381 18 .986 Non-
Significant Accepted
10 NGO’s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 2.153 8 .976 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 45.787 6 .000 Significant Rejected
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is partly accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
Alternate Hypothesis
Marital status has a partial positive impact on the motivating factors to the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between Marital
Status and Motivating Factors, of the elected women representatives of the Gram
Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively backward) and
Udupi (developed). It is found that the variable Marital Status has association with
brother/s motivation and sister/s motivation to the elected women representatives in
both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi. Thus, the result calls for a
rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable Marital Status has association with the husband’s motivation, children’s
motivation, and SHG motivation to the elected women representatives. Thus, the
result also calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis. At the same time it is found that
in the case of Udupi district, the variable NGO’s motivation to the elected women
representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
196
In Udupi district (developed), the variables husband’s motivation and
children’s motivation has no relation the motivating factors. Thus, the result calls for
an acceptance of the null hypothesis. And in Chamarajanagar, the variable NGO’s
motivation no relation to the motivating factor. Thus, the result calls for an
acceptance of the null hypothesis.
In Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward) and Udupi disrict
(developed), it is found that the variable marital status has no relation to Self-
motivation, relative’s motivation, villagers motivation, and political party motivation
to the elected women representatives. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the
null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.11
The independent variable marital status has no association with the
dependent variable problems faced, by the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-
operation by the
male members
Chamarajanagar .132 2 .936 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.718 6 .715 Non-
significant Accepted
2
Non co-
operation by the
secretary
Chamarajanagar .722 2 .697 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .482 3 .923 Non-
significant Accepted
3
Not informed
agenda for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar .140 2 .932 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .482 3 .923 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect
was not given
Chamarajanagar .283 2 .868 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .285 3 .963 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for
the meeting
Chamarajanagar .574 2 .751 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 10.445 3 .015 Significant Rejected
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
197
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between maritial
status and the selected variable problems faced, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable marital status has no association with the
problems faced such as Non co-operation by the male members, Non co-operation by
the secretary, Not informed agenda for the meeting, and Protocol respect was not
given, to the elected women representatives in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
and Udupi. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), it is found that the variable marital
status has association with late notice for the meeting, to the elected women
representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis. But in the
case of Chamarajanagar district it is found that the variable marital status has no
association with late notice for the meeting, to the elected women representatives.
Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.12
The independent variable marital status has no association with the
dependent variable strategies adopted to solve problems, by the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between maritial
status with selected variable strategies adopted to solve problems, of the elected
women representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz.,
Chamarajanagar (relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable maritial status has no association with the
problems faced such as Non co-operation by the male members, Non co-operation by
the secretary, Not informed agenda for the meeting, and Protocal respect was not
given, to the elected women representatives in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
and Udupi. Thus, the result calls for an acceptence of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
198
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-
operation
by the
male
members
Chamarajanagar .132 2 .936 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.108 3 .375 Non-
significant Accepted
2
Non co-
operation
by the
secretary
Chamarajanagar .722 4 .949 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .583 6 .997 Non-
significant Accepted
3
Not
informed
agenda
for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 140 2 .932 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .482 9 1.000 Non-
significant Accepted
4
Protocol
respect
was not
given
Chamarajanagar .283 2 .868 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .285 3 .963 Non-
significant Accepted
5
Late
notice for
the
meeting
Chamarajanagar .574 2 .751 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 10.445 3 .015 Significant Rejected
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
In the case of Udupi district (developed), it is found that the variable marital
status has association with late notice for the meeting, to the elected women
representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis. But in the
case of Chamarajanagar district it is found that the variable marital status has no
association with late notice for the meeting, to the elected women representatives.
Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
All the issues discussed in various forums and the problems identified have
been affectively solved by not keeping any issue pending before the tenure of their
membership is completed.
Testing of Hypotheses
199
Hypothesis 7.13
The independent variable employment has no association with the dependent
variable participation, by the elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 NGO
Membership
Chamarajanagar 2.100 5 .835 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 6.827 6 .337 Non-
significant Accepted
2 SHG
Membership
Chamarajanagar 3.893 5 .565 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 5.480 6 .484 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Mahila Mandal
Membership
Chamarajanagar 6.176 5 .289 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 8.907 6 .179 Non-
significant Accepted
4
Temple/Church
Committee
Membership
Chamarajanagar -- -- -- -- --
Udupi 14.912 6 .021 Significant Rejected
4 SDMC
Membership
Chamarajanagar 3.681 5 .596 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 5.563 6 .474 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Milk Diary
Membership
Chamarajanagar 2.304 5 .806 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi -- -- -- -- --
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between Employment
status and the selected variable participation, of the elected women representatives of
the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Employment status has no relation to the variable
of participation, viz., NGO, SHG, Mahila Mandal and Temple/Church committee, and
Milk Diary membership in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi (except
for the Temple/Church committee membership in Chamarajanagar and the Milk Diary
membership in Udupi). Thus, the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
200
Hypothesis 7.14
The independent variable employment has no association with the dependent
variable motivating factors, by the elected women representatives of the Grama
Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 Self- motivation
Chamarajanagar 73.240 40 .001 Significant Rejected
Udupi 41.614 36 .240 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Husband
motivation
Chamarajanagar 37.357 30 .107 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 34.533 36 .538 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Children
motivation
Chamarajanagar 43.677 35 .149 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 29.379 36 .775 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Brother/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 55.939 30 .003 Significant Rejected
Udupi 48.695 36 .077 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Sister/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 213.770 30 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 78.809 42 .001 Significant Rejected
6 Relatives
motivation
Chamarajanagar 81.077 35 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 95.398 42 .000 Significant Rejected
7 Villagers
motivation
Chamarajanagar 59.185 30 .001 Significant Rejected
Udupi 133.093 54 .000 Significant Rejected
8 Political Party
motivation
Chamarajanagar 99.344 40 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 49.898 42 .188 Non-
significant Accepted
9 SHG motivation Chamarajanagar 65.905 40 .006 Significant Rejected
Udupi 75.927 36 .000 Significant Rejected
10 NGO’s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 57.569 20 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 24.635 12 .017 Significant Rejected
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is mostly rejected in both the districts of
Chamarajanagar and Udupi.
Alternate Hypothesis
Employment has the most positive impact on the motivating factors, by the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
Employment has mostly positive impact on the motivating factors, by the
elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar district.
Testing of Hypotheses
201
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between employment
and the selected variable Motivating Factors, of the elected women representatives
of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi (developed). It is found that the variable employment has
association with sister/s, relatives, villages, SHG’s, and NGOs motivation, to the
elected women representatives in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi.
Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable employment has association with self motivation, brother/s motivation
and political party motivation, to the elected women representatives. Thus, the result
calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
Further, in Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward) and Udupi district
(developed), it is found that the variable employment have no association with
Husband’s motivation and children’s motivation, to the elected women
representatives. In Udupi district (developed), it is also found that the variable
employment have no association with Self motivation, brother/s motivation and
political party’s motivation to the elected women representative. Thus, the result calls
for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.15
The independent variable employment has no association with the dependent
variable problems faced, by the elected women representatives of the Grama
Panchayats.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between employment
and selected variable problems faced, of the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively backward)
and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable employment has no association with non-
coperation by the male members, not informed agenda for the meeting, and protocol
respect was not given, to the elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar
district. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
202
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-
operation
by the male
members
Chamarajanagar 3.885 5 .566 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 27.110 12 .007 Significant Rejected
2
Non co-
operation
by the
secretary
Chamarajanagar 16.110 5 .007 Significant Rejected
Udupi 3.122 6 .793 Non-
significant Accepted
3
Not
informed
agenda for
the
meeting
Chamarajanagar .364 5 .996 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 5.891 6 .436 Non-
significant Accepted
4
Protocol
respect was
not given
Chamarajanagar 3.046 5 .693 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 2.670 6 .849 Non-
significant Accepted
5
Late
notice for
the
meeting
Chamarajanagar 26 5 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 2.305 6 .890 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is mostly accepted in Chamarajanagar and Udupi
districts.
But in the case of Udupi district is found that the variable employment has no
association with Non co-operation by the secretary, not informed agenda for the
meeting, protocol respect was not given and late notice for the meeting, to the
elected women representatives. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null
hypothesis.
In case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that the
variable employment has association with non co-operation by the secretary and late
notice for the meeting, to the elected women representatives. Thus, the result calls for
a rejection of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
203
In Udupi district (developed), it is also found that the variable employment
has association with only non co-operation by the male members, to the elected
women representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.16
The independent variable employment has no association with the dependent
variable strategies adopted to solve problems, by the elected women representatives
of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 Non co-operation by the male members
Chamarajanagar 3.885 5 .566 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 20.109 6 .003 Significant Rejected
2 Non co-operation by the secretary
Chamarajanagar 31 10 .001 Significant Rejected
Udupi 3.845 12 .986 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Not informed agenda for the meeting
Chamarajanagar .364 5 .996 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 5.891 18 .997 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect was not given
Chamarajanagar 3.046 5 .693 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 2.670 6 .849 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for the meeting
Chamarajanagar 26.364 5 .000 Significant Rejected
Udupi 2.309 6 .890 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is mostly accepted in Chamarajanagar and Udupi
districts.
The Chi-square test was applied to find out the association between
employment and the selected variable strategies adopted to solve problems, of the
elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz.,
Chamarajanagar (relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable employment has no association with non co-
operation by the male members, not informed agenda for the meeting, and protocol
respect was not given, to the elected women representatives in Chamarajanagar
district. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
204
But in the case of Udupi district is found that the variable employment has no
association with non co-operation by the secretary, not informed agenda for the
meeting, protocol respect was not given, and late notice for the meeting, to the elected
women representatives. Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found that
the variable employment has association with non co-operation by the secretary and
late notice for the meeting, to the elected women representatives. Thus, the result
calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
In Udupi district (developed), it is also found that the variable employment
has association with only non co-operation by the male members, to the elected
women representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null hypothesis.
All the issues discussed in various forums and the problems identified have
been affectively solved by not keeping any issue pending before the tenure of their
membership is completed.
Hypothesis 7.17
The independent variable type of family has no association with the dependent
variable participation, by the elected women representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 NGO Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.692 2 .429 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 2.549 2 .280 Non-
significant Accepted
2 SHG Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.234 2 .539 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.850 2 .146 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Mahila Mandal Membership
Chamarajanagar .934 2 .627 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .190 2 .909 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Temple/Church Committee Membership
Chamarajanagar -- -- -- -- --
Udupi 1.004 2 .605 Non-
significant Accepted
4 SDMC Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.692 2 .429 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .819 2 .664 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Milk Diary Membership
Chamarajanagar 1.437 2 .488 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi -- -- -- -- --
Significant Level: 0.05
Testing of Hypotheses
205
Result : The Null Hypothesis is totally accepted in Chamarajanagar and Udupi
districts.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between Type of
Family and the selected variable participation, of the elected women representatives
of the Gram Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Type of Family has no relation to the variable of
participation, viz., NGO, SHG, Mahila Mandal and Temple/Church committee and
Milk Diary membership in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar and Udupi (except
for the Temple/Church committee membership in Chamarajanagar and Milk Diary
membership in Udupi). Thus, the result calls for the acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Hypothesis 7.18
The independent variable type of family has no association with the
dependent variable motivating factors, to the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between type of
Family and the selected variable Motivating Factors, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that in Udupi district (developed), the variable type of Family has
association with Self motivation, Husband’s motivation, and villager’s motivation, to
the elected women representatives. Thus, the result calls for a rejection of the null
hypothesis. In the case of Chamarajanagar district (relatively backward), it is found
that, the variable type of Family has no association with all the motivating factors.
Thus, the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Further, in Udupi district (developed) the variable type of Family has no
relation to the motivating factors such as children’s motivation, Brother/s
motivation, Sister/s motivation, relative’s motivation, political party’s motivation,
SHG motivation, and NGOs motivation, to the elected women representatives. Thus,
the result calls for an acceptance of the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
206
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1 Self -
motivation
Chamarajanagar 20.036 16 .219 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 7.222 12 .043 Significant Rejected
2 Husband
motivation
Chamarajanagar 20.066 12 .066 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 21.295 12 .046 Significant Rejected
3 Children
motivation
Chamarajanagar 21.587 14 .088 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 12.130 12 .435 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Brother/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 5.037 12 .957 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 8.622 12 .735 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Sister/s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 7.851 12 .797 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 9.606 14 .790 Non-
significant Accepted
6 Relatives
motivation
Chamarajanagar 10.473 14 .727 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 12.397 14 .574 Non-
Significant Accepted
7 Villagers
motivation
Chamarajanagar 8.134 12 .775 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 30.829 18 .030 Significant Rejected
8
Political
Party
motivation
Chamarajanagar 10.151 16 .859 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 5.311 14 .981 Non-
significant Accepted
9 SHG
motivation
Chamarajanagar 12.227 16 .728 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 12.221 12 .428 Non -
significant Accepted
10 NGO’s
motivation
Chamarajanagar 5.133 8 .743 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .975 4 .914 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
mostly accepted in Udupi district.
Testing of Hypotheses
207
Hypothesis 7.19
The independent variable type of family has no association with the
dependent variable the problems faced, by the elected women representatives of the
Grama Panchayats.
Sl.
No. Variable District
Chi-
square
value
Degrees
of
Freedom
Level of
Significance Result
Test of
Hypothesis
1
Non co-operation
by the male
members
Chamarajanagar 1.242 2 .537 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 1.427 4 .839 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Non co-operation
by the secretary
Chamarajanagar .273 2 .873 Non-
Significant Accepted
Udupi 3.621 2 .164 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Not informed
agenda for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar .941 2 .625 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.621 2 .164 Non-
significant Accepted
4 Protocol respect
was not given
Chamarajanagar .082 2 .960 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .726 2 .696 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for the
meeting
Chamarajanagar .166 2 .920 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .480 2 .786 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between type of
Family and the selected variable problems faced, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Type of Family has no relation to the variable of
problems faced, viz., Non co-operation by the male members, Non co-operation by
the secretary, Not informed agenda for the meeting, Protocol respect was not given,
and Late notice for the meeting in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi districts(developed). Thus, the result calls for the acceptance of
the null hypothesis.
Testing of Hypotheses
208
Hypothesis 7.20
The independent variable type of family has no association with the
dependent variable strategies adopted to solve problems, by the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats.
Sl. No.
Variable District Chi-
square value
Degrees of
Freedom
Level of Significance
Result Test of
Hypothesis
1 Non co-operation by the male members
Chamarajanagar 1.242 2 .537 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .874 2 .646 Non-
significant Accepted
2 Non co-operation by the secretary
Chamarajanagar 1.105 4 .893 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 3.842 4 .428 Non-
significant Accepted
3 Not informed agenda for the meeting
Chamarajanagar .941 2 .625 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi 14.506 6 .024 Significant Rejected
4 Protocol respect was not given
Chamarajanagar .082 2 .960 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .726 2 .696 Non-
significant Accepted
5 Late notice for the meeting
Chamarajanagar .166 2 .920 Non-
significant Accepted
Udupi .480 2 .786 Non-
significant Accepted
Significant Level: 0.05
Result : The Null Hypothesis is fully accepted in Chamarajanagar district and
Udupi district.
The Chi-square test was applied to find the association between type of
Family and the selected variable problems faced, of the elected women
representatives of the Grama Panchayats for both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar
(relatively backward) and Udupi (developed).
It is found that the variable Type of Family has no relation to the variable of
problems faced, viz., Non co-operation by the male members, Non co-operation by
the secretary, Not informed agenda for the meeting, Protocol respect was not given,
and Late notice for the meeting, in both the districts, viz., Chamarajanagar (relatively
backward) and Udupi districts(developed). Thus the result calls for the acceptance of
the null hypothesis.
All the issues discussed in various forums and the problems identified have
been affectively solved by not keeping any issue pending before the tenure of their
membership is completed.