The philosophy of Panchayat Raj is deeply steeped in tradition and culture of rural India and is by no means a new concept. Panchayati Raj provided a system of self-governance at the village level, however, it did not have a constitutional status. April 24,1993 is a red-letter day in the history of Panchayati Raj in India as on this day the constitution (73rd Amendment) Act,1992 came into force to provide constitutional status to the Panchyati Raj institutions.

The 73rd and 74th amendments (1993) to the Indian constitution have served as a breakthrough towards ensuring equal access and increased participation in political power structure for women. The PRIs will play a central role in process of enhabcing women's participation in public life. The PRIs and the local self governments will be actively involved in the implementation and execution of the national policy for women at the grass root level.