The Empowerment of Women in India constitutes perhaps the first theoretical analysis of grassroots women s movements in India by utilizing a synthesis of social movement theory and state theory in understanding women and development. Based on a case study of decentralized and informal women s collective called the Swayam Shikshan Prayog (SSP), author Sangeetha Purushothaman illustrates the strategies through which rural women try to control resources and the forms of organizations required for changing the relations of power and autonomy vis-a-vis both men and various social groups. The case study demonstrates the need for and effectiveness of decentralized and informal forms of organization (such as networks and women s collectives) in mobilizing resources for poor women and for facilitating their participation in developmental processes. Among the other issues discussed are shifts in attitudes among both women and various levels of officials, the processes of resource transfer, and the strengthening of the capacities of poor women to effect sustainable change in their own lives. The author concludes that decentralized networks of women s collectives and NGOs can increase the participation of women at the grassroots, enabling them to bargain for resources and to change state policy.
Product Identifiers
Publisher
SAGE Publications, Incorporated
ISBN-10
0803993951
ISBN-13
9780803993952
eBay Product ID (ePID)
189690
Product Key Features
Author
Sangeetha Purushothaman
Format
Hardcover
Language
English
Topic
Women in Politics, Social History, Women's Studies
Publication Year
1998
Type
Textbook
Genre
History, Social Science, Political Science
Number of Pages
384 Pages
Dimensions
Item Weight
21 Oz
Additional Product Features
Lc Classification Number
Hq1236.5.I4p87 1997
Reviews
'A very significant contribution to the field, for it combines rich empirical data with serious theorising in the field of social movements, grassroots level networks and the state....I can wholeheartedly recommend the book to a wide range of readers' - Contemporary South Asia
Publication Name
Empowerment of Women in India : Grassroots Women′S Networks and the State
Table of Content
IntroductionThe Material Conditions Shaping Grassroots Womens Lives and Their OrganizationsThe Formation of the Swayam Shikshan Prayog NetworkSocial Movement Theory Applicability to Indian Womens OrganizationsWomen and the State in IndiaProcess and Outcomes of the Activities of the Swayam Shikshan PrayogConclusions