The purpose of this research is to assess the engagement and influence of women in Traditional Insti­tu­tions (TIs) and Panchayati Raj Insti­tu­tions (PRIs) in Arunachal Pradesh, and to evaluate the impact of these institutions due to dual governance. The objectives of this research are as follows: 1) Assess the nature and extent of women's participation in TIs and PRIs; 2) Understand how women's participation in these institutions is influenced by socio-cultural barriers and political norms; and 3) Identify the potential for women's empowerment through increased participatory and representative roles in local governments. Women's participation in PRIs has been enhanced by the 73rd Constitu­tional Amend­ment Act, 1992 by providing size restrictions on the number of members from women. However, although women have gained improved descriptive representation through reserved seats, their substantive participation remains hindered by cultural barriers to access decision-making authority, proxy representation, and insuffi­cient institutional support. In contrast, most women in TIs do not have formal decision-making authority. Rather, women's only role in TIs is to provide informal influence and socio-cultural contributions. This study argues that to achieve meaningful women's empowerment, TIs and PRIs must evolve to not only provide a place for women within the institutions, but also work to transform the traditional norms that restrain women; to build women's capacity; and to create policies that support women's participation. The conclusion of this study is that improving women's participation in both TIs and PRIs is critical to achieving a participatory, inclusive, and equitable system of grassroots governance in Arunachal Pradesh.