Chandigarh, Apr 22 (PTI) In an initiative to empower young girls, Haryana's first 'Balika Panchayat' has been constituted in Fatehabad's Barseen village by the Zila Parishad.

The panchayat was formed through a formal voting process in which girls aged 11 to 18 and young women from 18 to 21 actively participated and were elected to various posts, an official statement said here on Tuesday.

Also Read | Shillong Teer Results Today, April 22 2025: Winning Numbers, Result Chart for Shillong Morning Teer, Shillong Night Teer, Khanapara Teer, Juwai Teer and Jowai Ladrymbai.

The statement quoting a government spokesperson stated that the programme was held in Fatehabad district, where Deputy Commissioner Mandeep Kaur was the chief guest. She distributed certificates to the newly elected Sarpanch and Panch members of the Balika Panchayat.

"The Balika Panchayat aims to raise awareness among girls and women about their rights, issues related to women's safety, nutrition, and sanitation. While these panchayats will not hold constitutional or financial authority, they will be allowed to participate in Gram Sabha meetings and present their suggestions," it said.

Also Read | TS Telangana Inter Results 2025 Announced: 1st and 2nd Year Results Declared at tgbie.cgg.gov.in - Here's How To Check and Download Your Scorecard.

The spokesperson informed that the Balika Panchayat in Barseen village has been constituted as a pilot project. Following its success, similar panchayats will be established in every village of the district to promote the welfare and participation of girls.

The key objectives of forming these panchayats also include supporting the 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' campaign and fostering gender equality, the spokesperson said.

The Balika Panchayat will focus on vital areas such as education, health, safety, sanitation, and gender equality. It will work in coordination with the Gram Panchayat and take part in its proceedings.

Members of the Balika Panchayat will also be provided training in governance, leadership, and social development, the spokesperson said.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)