What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: In a landmark analysis by SBI Research, a comprehensive dataset released by the Election Commission has revealed a significant rise in women voter turnout in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, marking an 18 million increase compared to 2019. This unprecedented surge, attributed to the impact of women-centric government schemes, underscores a transformative shift in India’s electoral landscape.
The research highlights that the implementation of initiatives like income transfer programs, literacy campaigns, employment schemes like Mudra Yojana, and housing under PMAY have directly contributed to the increased participation of women voters. Notably, access to electricity and improved drinking water facilities also played a crucial role in empowering female voters across the country.
The data shows that out of the 18 million new women voters, significant portions are linked to literacy (45 lakhs), employment opportunities (36 lakhs), house ownership (20 lakhs), and sanitation (21 lakhs). This positive trend is more pronounced in the 19 states that launched targeted welfare programs, where the average female voter turnout saw an increase of 7.8 lakh, in stark contrast to the 2.5 lakh rise in non-beneficiary states.
This surge is also reflected in the growing number of female candidates in the election, with women now accounting for nearly 9.6% of total candidates a substantial increase from earlier years. However, challenges persist, particularly with representation in the Lok Sabha, where women’s participation still falls short compared to global standards.
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In response to these encouraging trends, experts suggest introducing absentee voting systems, such as postal, early, or electronic voting, to further enhance voter participation. The findings from the 2024 election provide a clear picture: when women are empowered through policy, they actively engage in shaping the nation’s democratic future.
