Phangnon Konyak: Pioneering Gender Equality in Indian Parliament
Marking a significant moment in history, Mrs Phangnon Konyak became the first woman Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagaland to chair the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Indian Parliament, on July 25, 2023. This momentous achievement follows her historic appointment to the panel of Vice-Presidents on July 17, 2023, making her a trailblazer in the realm of gender equality in Indian politics. Moreover, in a progressive step towards empowering women, the Rajya Sabha Chairman, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, nominated four women members, constituting 50% of the total strength, to the panel of Vice-Chairmen, further promoting women's representation in the highest legislative body of the country.
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| Phangnon Konyak became the first woman MP from Nagaland to chair the Rajya Sabha |
The Journey of Mrs. Phangnon Konyak
Mrs. Phangnon Konyak hails from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and achieved a remarkable feat by being elected as a Rajya Sabha member from Nagaland in April 2022. She is the second woman from the state to be elected to either House of Parliament or the State Legislative Assembly. Her political journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, earning her a place in various crucial committees and councils.
Contributions and Committee Memberships
Mrs. Phangnon Konyak is a valued member of several committees and councils that play a significant role in shaping India's governance and policies. Some of these include:
1. Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture
This committee focuses on vital sectors of transport, tourism, and culture, aiming to enhance infrastructure, promote tourism, and preserve India's diverse cultural heritage.
2. Consultative Committee of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
Mrs. Konyak's involvement in this committee underscores her commitment to the development and progress of the North Eastern states, ensuring their integration and growth in the nation's mainstream.
3. Committee on Women Empowerment
As a member of this committee, she advocates for policies and measures that uplift and empower women across the country, ensuring their active participation in various spheres of life.
4. House Committee
This committee plays a crucial role in overseeing and ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary proceedings, maintaining decorum, and addressing internal affairs.
5. Governing Council of North-Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Shillong
In this capacity, Mrs. Konyak contributes to the development of healthcare and medical education in the North Eastern region, striving to improve healthcare services and facilities.
Other Influential Women MPs Nominated to the Panel
Apart from Mrs. Phangnon Konyak, three other notable women MPs were nominated to the panel of Vice-Chairmen:
1. Mrs. P.T. Usha
A Padma Shri awardee and a renowned athlete, Mrs. P.T. Usha was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in July 2022. She actively participates in committees related to defense, youth affairs, and sports, working towards the promotion of sports and the welfare of athletes.
2. Dr. Fauzia Khan
From the Nationalist Congress Party, Dr. Fauzia Khan was elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 2020. She contributes to committees dealing with women's empowerment, consumer affairs, food and public distribution, and law and justice, advocating for progressive policies.
3. Mrs. Sulta Devi
Representing the Biju Janata Dal, Mrs. Sulta Devi was elected to the Rajya Sabha in July 2022. She serves on committees related to industries, women's empowerment, office of profit, and the welfare of women and children, striving to bring positive change in these domains.
Conclusion
The appointment of Mrs. Phangnon Konyak as the first woman MP from Nagaland to chair the Rajya Sabha is a remarkable milestone for gender equality in Indian politics. Alongside the nominations of three other influential women MPs to the panel of Vice-Chairmen, this move symbolizes a progressive step towards greater representation and empowerment of women in the country's highest legislative body. As these women leaders continue to serve with dedication and passion, they inspire generations to come and shape a more inclusive and equitable political landscape in India.
FAQs
1. Who is Mrs. Phangnon Konyak?
Mrs. Phangnon Konyak is the first woman Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagaland to chair the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Indian Parliament.
2. What committees is Mrs. Konyak part of?
Mrs. Konyak is part of several crucial committees, including the Committee on Transport, Tourism, and Culture, the Consultative Committee of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, the Committee on Women Empowerment, the House Committee, and the Governing Council of North-Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Shillong.
3. How many women MPs were nominated to the panel of Vice-Chairmen?
Four women MPs, constituting 50% of the total strength, were nominated to the panel of Vice-Chairmen.
4. Who are the other women MPs nominated to the panel?
The other women MPs nominated to the panel of Vice-Chairmen are Mrs. P.T. Usha, Dr. Fauzia Khan, and Mrs. Sulta Devi.
5. What does this step signify for gender equality?
This step signifies a progressive move towards promoting gender equality and greater representation of women in the Indian Parliament, particularly in the Rajya Sabha.
