a) whether any hinderances are coming in the way of empowerment of Panchayats and if so, the details thereof;
b) whether any guidelines have been issued by the Union Government to the States for the elimination of those hinderances, if so, the details thereof; and
c) the extent to which success has been achieved in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PANCHAYATI RAJ
(SHRI PARSHOTTAM RUPALA)
(a) :As per the Article 243G of the Constitution, the States have been empowered to devolve power, authority and responsibilities to Panchayats for preparation and implementation of plans for economic development and social justice. Because of differential in the devolution of powers, funds and functionaries and availability of infrastructure, the functioning of panchayats varies from State to State.
(b) & (c): Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has advised the States/UTs, covered under the Part IX, to constitute an Expert Group consisting of professionals, experts from different walks of life, officials and senior political leaders with experience in Panchayati Raj and prepare a road map to assess the level of decentralization and performance of Panchayats in the State in harmony with the State’s policies and priorities. MoPR issues guidelines and advisories to States from time to time on devolution, strengthening of basic infrastructure/amenities, training of PRIs and strengthening of Gram Sabhas. Over the years, the overall functioning of Panchayats has substantially improved. There is participation of various sections of society in the Panchayat processes and efforts have been made to bring in efficiency, transparency and accountability through use of information and communication technology.
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