Terwad Village: A Journey Towards Gender Equality

The Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to live with dignity based on the values of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity. The constitutional principle of equality recognizes women and men as equal partners in the family and society. However, in reality, despite women’s significant contributions to the household, agriculture, and the economy, their identity and role often remain unrecognized. Traditionally, only the husband’s name appeared on the nameplate of the house, symbolizing a long-standing social norm. To acknowledge women’s contribution and promote equal status and dignity, the “Ghar Doghanche” (Home Belongs to Both) campaign was launched.

As part of this campaign, Terwad village in Shirol Taluka emerged as a remarkable example of promoting gender equality through collective community participation.At the beginning of the campaign, Constitution Dialogue Facilitators organized Gram Sabha meetings, household visits, women’s self-help group meetings, youth dialogues, and community discussions throughout the village. Citizens were continuously engaged in conversations about the constitutional principle of equality, women’s property rights, their contribution to family life, and the social significance of displaying the names of both husband and wife on the house nameplate.

Initially, many villagers questioned the purpose of the campaign. They asked, “The house already belongs to us, so why should the nameplate be changed?” and “What difference will it make?” Through patient and meaningful dialogue, the Constitution Dialogue Facilitators explained that a joint nameplate is not merely a display of names; it is a public recognition of a woman’s dignity, equal partnership, and the constitutional value of equality.

Gradually, these discussions brought about a positive change in people’s attitudes. The Gram Panchayat, elected representatives, women’s groups, youth, and the entire community embraced the campaign as their own initiative. Together, the village resolved that every household would display the names of both husband and wife on its nameplate.

With tremendous enthusiasm and collective participation, 1,196 households in Terwad village installed joint nameplates bearing the names of both spouses. Every family voluntarily participated in the campaign, making the village a living example of gender equality in action.

In recognition of this remarkable achievement, a Village Honour Ceremony (Gram Gaurav Sohala) was organized. Officials from the taluka administration appreciated the campaign and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to promoting joint property ownership and strengthening women’s rights.

The campaign brought about a positive shift in social attitudes towards women in Terwad. Women’s contributions to the family and society received greater public recognition. Meaningful discussions on gender equality gained momentum, and the constitutional value of equality began to be reflected in everyday community life. The active participation of the Gram Panchayat, women’s groups, youth, and villagers further strengthened social unity and reinforced the message of equality.

Today, Terwad is recognized as a model village for successfully implementing the “Ghar Doghanche” campaign. The initiative has demonstrated that meaningful social transformation does not always require vast financial resources. When communities unite around constitutional values and collective action, they can create lasting and inspiring change.

The story of Terwad is not merely about installing joint nameplates on 1,196 houses. It is the story of an entire village publicly embracing the constitutional principle of equality and recognizing women as equal partners with dignity, respect, and rightful identity. It stands as an inspiring example of community-led social transformation rooted in the values of the Constitution of India.