Shimla: A major update has emerged regarding the upcoming Panchayat elections in Himachal Pradesh, as the government has officially released the reservation roster.
According to the new roster, 50 percent of seats across Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila Parishads have been reserved for women, ensuring significant representation at the grassroots level.
The reservation has been implemented based on the 2011 Census data. In addition, seats have been allocated for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), while Other Backward Classes (OBC) will receive reservation in proportion to their population.
The government has also granted Deputy Commissioners (DCs) limited powers to make necessary adjustments in the roster under special circumstances to address local requirements.
Meanwhile, indications suggest that the election notification may be issued by the third week of April, with polling expected to be conducted in phases.
The move is being seen as a significant step toward strengthening women’s participation in grassroots democracy across the state.



