PM Modi Urges Nationwide Participation in ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ Campaign to Strengthen Grassroots Democracy

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on rural residents and stakeholders across India to actively participate in the ‘Sabki Yojana Sabka Vikas’ Abhiyan – People’s Plan Campaign (2024–25). In a letter dated October 1, 2024, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for committed involvement in the preparation of the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) for 2025–26, which is critical to the holistic and sustainable development of rural India.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient Vedic verse “विश्वं पृष्टं ग्रामे अस्मिन् अनातुरम्”, meaning “just as the world is complete in itself, so too should our villages be capable, empowered, and prosperous,” the Prime Minister reiterated the importance of creating self-sufficient and sustainable villages. He stressed that every citizen’s contribution is essential in transforming Gram Panchayats into thriving centers of growth and development.

The People’s Plan Campaign (Jan Yojana Abhiyan) officially launched nationwide today on Gandhi Jayanti, with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj appealing to all Panchayats and stakeholders to participate. Special Gram Sabhas are being held in over 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats, where citizens can share their views and contribute to local development plans.

Union Minister of Panchayati Raj, Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh), emphasized the campaign’s alignment with the vision of a self-reliant (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) and developed India (Viksit Bharat). He urged Sarpanchs, Panchayat members, and rural residents to contribute enthusiastically to the creation of development plans, stressing that every idea and voice is vital in shaping the future of rural India.

The campaign’s objectives are closely tied to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, highlighted the significance of the People’s Plan Campaign as a means to empower citizens and strengthen the roots of democracy. He also encouraged the involvement of frontline workers from various departments in the Gram Sabhas to ensure informed and effective planning.

As part of the campaign, a landmark initiative commemorating the 75th year of the Republic of India is taking place, with special Gram Sabhas on October 2 focused on planning for 2025–26. These Gram Sabhas are supported by representatives from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, who are providing valuable insights and guidance to ensure high-quality Panchayat Development Plans.

In an unprecedented collaboration, the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), coordinated by IIT Delhi, will involve over 15,000 students from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in this year’s People’s Plan Campaign. These students will help prepare GPDPs and assist in facilitating special Gram Sabhas. Additionally, fellows from organizations like the Piramal Foundation, Aspirational Bharat Collaborative (ABC), and Transforming Rural India Foundation (TRIF) will support the campaign by co-facilitating discussions and training Panchayat representatives.

The campaign also celebrates the wisdom and experiences of senior citizens, inviting those aged 75 and above to participate in Gram Sabhas. Their insights, drawn from decades of witnessing India’s evolution, will help guide future development plans for Panchayats.