New Delhi: The 2-day long National Consultative Workshop on the ‘Status of Devolution of Powers to Panchayats’ was inaugurated by Shri Vivek Bhardwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India. Organized by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj, the conference aims to assess and enhance the process of devolution at the grassroots level.
During his inaugural address, Secretary Vivek Bhardwaj stressed the importance of a shared vision, common goals, and collaborative actions to advance the devolution process. He proposed the inclusion of a ‘Devolution Index’ in the agenda for discussions, emphasizing the need to develop the financial and human resource capacities of Panchayats to align with their expected functions. Bhardwaj stated, “Empowering Panchayats & strengthening Panchayati Raj system are not just about local self-governance; it’s about fostering self-reliance & sustainability. A self-sufficient Panchayat is a cornerstone for building an Atmanirbhar & Vikasit Bharat.”
The first day of the workshop included sessions on the “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States,” along with two experience-sharing sessions on “Devolution of Functions and Finances to Panchayats” and “Devolution of Functionaries and Capacity Building to Panchayats.” Discussions centered around six key dimensions of devolution: Framework, Functions, Finances, Functionaries, Capacity building, and Accountability.
The inaugural session was attended by Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India, Shri S. N. Tripathi, DG, IIPA, and Dr. V. N Alok, Professor, IIPA. Additional Chief Secretaries/Principal Secretaries/Secretaries of the Panchayati Raj Departments of the State/UT Governments, senior officers of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, NITI Aayog, RBI, Comptroller and Auditor General of India, and senior research faculty and officers of IIPA were also present.
The workshop serves as a significant platform for policymakers, government officials, and experts to collaboratively address the challenges and opportunities associated with the devolution of powers to Panchayats, ultimately contributing to the strengthening of local self-governance in India.