IAS officer Minal Karanwal, a 2019-batch officer of the Maharashtra cadre, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Nanded Zilla Parishad. A history graduate from St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, her professional journey reflects a commitment to innovative and impactful governance. Hailing from Uttarakhand, Karanwal has demonstrated an aptitude for addressing rural challenges through community-driven initiatives since her appointment.
Pioneering the ‘Balika Panchayat’
One of Karanwal’s notable contributions is the introduction of the ‘Balika Panchayat’ in Nanded district. This initiative empowers young girls to participate actively in local governance and problem-solving, fostering leadership skills and civic awareness. Originally conceptualized by a sarpanch in Gujarat’s Kutch region, the idea was adapted to suit the socio-cultural context of Nanded following Karanwal’s exposure to the program during a Ministry of Panchayati Raj training session at IIM Ahmedabad.
The ‘Balika Panchayat’ serves as a platform where young girls learn to identify and address pressing local issues, thus preparing them for active citizenship. By engaging these young leaders, the initiative has created a ripple effect of awareness and action across the district.
Tackling Public Health Challenges
Under Karanwal’s leadership, the Balika Panchayat has been instrumental in combating lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic disease prevalent in rural areas. Recognizing that misconceptions and a lack of trust in government-distributed medications hinder efforts to control the disease, Karanwal mobilized the Balika Panchayat to lead awareness campaigns.
In Yergi village, young girls marched through the community, chanting slogans to educate residents about the disease and the safety of government-distributed drugs, such as Diethylcarbamazine Citrate (DEC) and Albendazole. In a symbolic act of trust-building, these girls publicly consumed the medications, dispelling fears and encouraging others to follow suit. This grassroots effort has significantly improved the acceptance of preventive measures against the disease.
Karanwal’s work reflects a nuanced approach to governance that respects traditional practices while promoting modern, evidence-based solutions. For instance, the initiative addressed harmful traditional remedies for filariasis, such as the use of snake venom or scorpion bites, by replacing them with scientifically validated treatments.
Her efforts have not only improved public health outcomes but have also highlighted the importance of community trust in implementing government programs.
Karanwal’s tenure in Nanded exemplifies a vision of governance that prioritizes inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment. By involving young girls in leadership roles, she has expanded the scope of local governance and created a model for participatory development. Her approach underscores the importance of leveraging grassroots engagement to achieve broader policy objectives, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
IAS Minal Karanwal’s journey from a history graduate to a transformative administrator is marked by her innovative mindset and ability to mobilize communities for change. Through initiatives like the Balika Panchayat and her public health campaigns, she has set a precedent for how local governance can be both inclusive and impactful. Her work in Nanded not only empowers the youth but also addresses critical societal challenges, showcasing the potential of dynamic leadership in India’s administrative framework.
