Why is Gender mainstreaming necessary? Even though equality of men and women has been established by section 12 (2) of the Constitution of Sri Lanka, it is not ensured and assured in Sri Lankan society. Therefore, this situation can, to a certain extent be averted only if gender sensitivities are taken into consideration at all levels of government; executive, legislature and judiciary and at all development programmes. At all levels of decision making to upgrade the status of women, men have taken the centre stage over the generations. They own more property resources and power. So as women’s interests, aspirations and experiences have not received proper attention, historically they have at a disadvantageous position leaving them to be exploited in numerous ways. In general women’s socio-economic and political situation remains lower to that of men. If this situation is to be changed gender sensitivities must be brought into the centre. Sustainable development is possible only if both men and women are involved in the process. Therefore, unless the participation of both parties are obtained half of the society becomes disadvantageous. Therefore any development project, from its feasibility study to the conclusion, should have the involvement and participation of women. If the involvement of both sexes and ensured at offices, educational institutions, political parties and trade unions and at the preparation of institutional frameworks, recruitment, distribution of duties and resources and in taking decisions in institutions, gender democracy can be established. Inclusion of a gender based approach will be very beneficial in attempts to obtain foreign aids and loans for development projects. Scandinavian countries have achieved very impressive results by incorporating gender based approaches in their development institutions. Prior to establishing concepts of gender mainstreaming the following strategies can be adopted to make the environment conducive for the former to be achieved successfully. . Establishing small groups in institutions that take an interest has understanding about gender mainstreaming. Giving the other members of the institution an understanding about it. Analyzing the loans, policies, resources, salaries, promotions, distribution of duties etc. of the institution in a gender perspective. Organising a group in the institution that has a thorough understanding about the concept. Giving the required knowledge and training required to initiate the process of mainstreaming to the relevant persons in the institution. Establishing a special unit to observe and evaluate that process. Advantages to gender mainstreaming A quality representation of both men and women. Balancing the activities of the institution by developing the knowledge, skills and technical abilities of both sexes. Creating the equal and satisfied environment in the institutions and thereby making them more efficient and effective being able to build the image of the institution thereby gaining more aids and assistance. It is a wrong belief that gender mainstreaming only benefits women; it is beneficial to both sexes and it reduces stress. 73