The correct answer is (b), 2007.
The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, passed in 1992, provided for reservation of seats for women in local bodies. The 73rd Amendment Act provided for reservation of seats for women in Panchayats (rural local bodies) at all levels, i.e., Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad. The 74th Amendment Act provided for reservation of seats for women in Municipalities (urban local bodies) at all levels, i.e., Ward Committee, Municipal Council and Municipal Corporation.
The initial reservation for women in Panchayats was 33%. However, in 2007, the Uttarakhand government increased the reservation for women to 50%. This was done through the Uttarakhand Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Act, 2007. The Act was passed by the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly on 26 July 2007 and came into force on 1 August 2007.
The increase in reservation for women in Panchayats was a significant step towards women’s empowerment. It has led to a greater participation of women in decision-making at the local level. It has also helped to improve the delivery of services to women and children.
The following are the options for the question:
(a) 2006: This is incorrect. The reservation for women in Panchayats was increased to 50% in 2007, not 2006.
(b) 2007: This is the correct answer. The reservation for women in Panchayats was increased to 50% in 2007, through the Uttarakhand Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Act, 2007.
(c) 2008: This is incorrect. The reservation for women in Panchayats was increased to 50% in 2007, not 2008.
(d) 2009: This is incorrect. The reservation for women in Panchayats was increased to 50% in 2007, not 2009.