GANGTOK, Sept. 19: The Sikkim government's decision to increase seats for women candidates to 40 per cent in the panchayat system has generated huge interest among the women to represent their areas."Women are now actively taking part for the upcoming panchayat elections. Many are enrolling their names as probable candidates," said Mrs Manita Pradhan chairman of Grievances and Social Service-cum State Commission for the Women. "We are expecting a large number of participants," she added. "Women of Sikkim will enjoy the highest reservation in the whole nation because of the present state government's historic decision," claimed chief minister Mr Pawan Chamling. "This reservation will improve women power and help in leading Sikkim to greater heights," he added. "Being fully aware that no state can progress without the participation of womenfolk, the state government has not spared any effort to ensure that the women of Sikkim receive their due status and dignity with opportunity to work alongside their male counterparts in all spheres of activity," Mr Chamling pointed out."A number of welfare oriented schemes for women have been launched. Women were also appointed to the highest post of Speaker, Cabinet Minister, Adhakshya in government departments and public sector undertakings," he added.
