Involvement of women in rural drinking water supply system in Arba village, Kaski
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Department of Sociology
Abstract
This thesis entitled “Involvement of Women in Rural Drinking Water Supply System” was
undertaken based on the study of new rural water supply and sanitation project in Arba
village with an objectives of examining the effectiveness of current applicable laws,
regulations and policies implemented to facilitate women’s participation in one hand and
in the other hand to explore cultural barriers, socio economic limiting issues, challenges
and obstacles to women’s participation in community development projects.
Both qualitative and quantitative data were obtained through primary and secondary
sources applying census method for the surveyed population using interview, focus group
discussion and observation as tools and techniques. Explorative and descriptive research
designs are used and data is processed by spreadsheet computer program.
Even though several decades have passed with establishment of separate ministry for
Women, Children and Social Welfare, National Women’s Commission, different
provisions made in the Civil Service Administrator Act, and ADB provisions for women’s
participation in community development projects, the result is not that satisfactory as
expected. Women’s are found just sought to fulfill 33% quota in different committees and
women are often excluded. Women’s exclusion often stems from traditional and deeply
rooted gender differences where women, compared to men are not given same right and
opportunities. The cultural barriers and socio economic obstacles and challenges hinder
female participation are still found.
However, in the new RWSSP, though need driven project, from preconception to
construction, operation and management the women’s participation is found better. This
participation is known to have reduced the time consumption, work overload and increased
participation of women in social and development activities. Women’s committee
formation, inclusion in water users’ committee, involvement in decision making, utilization
of leisure time with income generating activities, health and sanitation, economic
empowerment are some positive indicators for women’s involvement. Similarly, some
more works for capacity improvement, training, education and motivation for skill
development are still a need to transform the stage of increased involvement in
development projects.