Sihor, September 24, 2026:
The 17th General Assembly of Mahila Swaraj Manch was successfully held at Sihor Town Hall on September 24, 2026, bringing together 95 women members from Umrala and Sihor talukas. The gathering was a meaningful reflection of women’s collective strength, leadership and determination to create positive change in their families and communities.

 The programme was graced by the presence of Mrs. Sumitraben Thakkar, Trustee and Board Member of Mahila Swaraj Manch, and Advocate Mrs. Faridaben Padhiyar.

The meeting began with a warm welcome by President Raiyaben Rathod, followed by the reading of the minutes of the previous meeting by Secretary Familyaben Hunani, which were unanimously approved by the members.

The Assembly highlighted the growing strength of the organisation. Mahila Swaraj Manch now has 1,399 members, including 24 women Sarpanches, 129 Panchayat members and 286 members serving on various committees—a powerful testament to the increasing participation of rural women in local governance and community decision-making.

Several women representatives, including Vibhaba, Artiben, Mamataben and Krishnaben, who are currently serving as Sarpanches and Panchayat members, shared their personal experiences. With emotion and gratitude, they spoke about how the continuous guidance, encouragement and support received from Mahila Swaraj Manch helped them step forward, take responsibility and reach positions of leadership.

Their stories reflected a simple but powerful message: when women are supported, they do not just change their own lives—they become a source of strength and change for their entire community.

The Assembly also presented the Annual Activity Report for 2025–26 and held detailed discussions regarding the inclusion of new members in the Executive Committee.

Representatives of Lok Adhikar Kendra provided valuable information on assistance available to women for obtaining essential documents, accessing social security, housing and healthcare benefits, and applying for various government schemes. Information was also shared about the support available to women facing violence through Mahila Suraksha Samitis at the village level and Nyay Samitis at the taluka level, including legal guidance and support.

Offering her valuable guidance, Mrs. Sumitraben Thakkar, Mentor and Board Member, encouraged women to participate regularly in village organisation meetings, bring more women into the movement and confidently raise issues affecting themselves and their villages. Her message emphasised that every woman’s voice matters and every woman has the potential to contribute to the development of her community.

Mrs. Hiraben Solanki, Founder Member and Board Member, spoke about the organisational structure, functioning and membership contribution of the Manch, strengthening the understanding and ownership of the organisation among its members.

At the conclusion of the Assembly, Accountant Bhrantiben presented the annual income and expenditure statement for 2025–26.

The meeting concluded with a renewed and heartfelt commitment towards women’s empowerment, dignity, equality and participation in community development. The vote of thanks was delivered by Familyaben Hunani.

The dedicated leaders, members and grassroots workers of Mahila Swaraj Manch worked tirelessly to make the Assembly successful.

The 17th General Assembly was more than a formal meeting—it was a celebration of women finding their voice, taking their place in leadership and standing together to build stronger families, stronger villages and a more empowered society.