(a): The new restructured scheme of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) aims at strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) by way of capacity building of the elected representatives and functionaries through use of technology and handholding some selected Panchayats as peer learning centres. The RGSA envisages focusing on capacity building of Panchayati Raj Institutions for convergent action to deliver basic services and achieve the desired development goals.
(b): As per the Constitutional provisions, State Governments are charged with the responsibility of devolution of powers to Panchayats. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has continuously persuaded the State Governments to devolve powers to the Panchayats and also provided financial assistance to the States for strengthening of Panchayati Raj across the country, for training infrastructure, e-governance, etc., to enable PRIs to utilize devolved powers to function as efficient and effective units of local self-government. Under the Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC) award for the period 2015-20, grants to the tune of Rs. 2,00,292.20 crore are being devolved to Gram Panchayats constituted under Part IX of the Constitution and the State of Jammu and Kashmir, for delivering basic services. MoPR also recognizes and incentivizes the States/UTs for devolution of powers to Panchayats.
(c): The Constitution of India recognizes Panchayats as ‘Institutions of local self-government’. ‘Panchayats’ being ‘Local Bodies’ is a State subject mandated under Part IX and List II (State List) of Seventh Schedule (Article 246) of the Constitution of India. The provisions introduced through 73rd Constitutional Amendment along with funds being devolved to Panchayats through Union Finance Commission awards have helped in implementation of Centrally Sponsored social sector schemes and thus improving the life of marginalized people.
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