India must transition from top-down governance to a model where community leadership is the driving force behind sustainable development
India’s development trajectory has been shaped by significant contributions contribution from the office of Prime Minister (PM), Chief Minister (CM) and District Magistrate (DM). To achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 empowering Panchayat leadership, headed by Village Mukhiya (VM) is a critical strategy.
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 mandated the transfer of authority of 29 functions, underscoring their vital role in delivering services directly to the communities. Despite this mandate, Gram Panchayats (GP) lack functionaries and have limited infrastructure and capacity for planning and implementation. This often leads to either underutilisation of allocated funds or prioritising local infrastructural projects decided by either the district or state. Addressing these challenges is crucial for India to meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improve its Human Development Index (HDI) ranking. It requires building the capacity of GPs to adeptly identify, plan, and implement projects that align with the needs established through Gram Sabha.
The Panchayat Raj System established panchayats as the foundation of decentralised power, emphasising that sustainable development must begin with our smallest unit of democracy: the Panchayat, led by the VM (Sarpanch). Elevating the role of the VM akin to the PM and CM at the centre and state, supported by a strong administrative structure, can drive effective grassroots decision-making. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has grouped the 17 SDGs into nine themes, demonstrating India’s commitment to achieving these goals through the implementation of Localised SDGs (SDGs) by Panchayats. GPs across India, are tasked with creating Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) that align with LSDG priorities. However, a survey of 800 panchayats revealed that only 7 per cent of Sarpanches independently chose their LSDG themes using the Gram Panchayat Planning Facilitation Tool (GPPFT), while 34 per cent of themes were decided by Block officials, 22 per cent by Sarpanches or Sachivs, and 16 per cent were directed by the state, reflecting a need for strengthening planning at the panchayat level.
To develop Viksit Panchayats, four key actions are proposed: Support panchayat for last-mile convergence: When a 13-year-old girl drops out of school, the responsibility extends beyond the education department, requiring collaborative efforts across health, social welfare, and community development. A central coordinating body at the village level, led by the VM can drive such convergence. For instance, Anita Devi, Village Mukhiya of Bhetaura Panchayat in Gaya, Bihar has embraced the ‘Healthy Panchayat’ LSDG theme. Collaborating with ASHAs, Anganwadi Didis, and Gandhi Fellows to achieve ‘Zero Home Delivery’ eventually boosting institutional delivery rates from 25 per cent to nearly 90 per cent in just one year. Replicating such successes requires empowering panchayat through convergence of funds, and functionary and administrative support.
Reimagine development of Panchayat Leaders: India has 2.6 lakh elected VMs, dedicated to strengthening panchayat governance. Prime Minister’s call to bring 1 lakh youth into politics is a great encouragement for local youths. To unlock their full potential, we need to reimagine the institutional framework that focuses on capacity building for elected ‘VM and Ward Members’. For example, Jyoti Behar Devi, Mukhiya in Gumla, Jharkhand, banned alcohol in her panchayat, focused on livelihood opportunities and also started the “Siti Bajo aur School Aao” campaign to boost school attendance, effectively transforming her community.
Democratise data through Panchayat: Village Mukhiyas, as key information providers of government schemes, need real-time access to comprehensive beneficiary data and scheme details. Implementing technology solutions that provide such access is paramount for informed decision-making and efficient governance. The Ministry of Panchayat Raj and the Ministry of Rural Development has taken some initiatives which need further integration with planning and execution at the panchayat level.
Revitalise Village Committees
Village-level committees such as School Management Committees, Village Health and Sanitation Committees, Jan Arogya Samitis, and Village Water and Sanitation Committees, play a pivotal role in fostering decentralised governance and community participation in development efforts. To achieve Viksit Bharat, these committees need to align to avoid duplication of efforts and promote community ownership.
(The writer is Co-Founder and CEO Aspirational Bharat Collaborative; views are personal)
