Question : ROLE OF PANCHAYATS UNDER S.S.A.

(a) whether the Panchayats have been given a prominent role in the implementation of the Sarva-Shiksha Abhiyan;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the District Panchayats in the U.T. of Daman and Diu have not been given the same powers in the implementation of this Abhiyan as has been given in the other States;

(d) if so, the reasons therefor; and

(e) the steps proposed to be taken by the Government to give ample powers to the Panchayats in Daman and Diu for this purpose?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SHRI M.A.A. FATMI):

(a) and (b) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan allows States/UTs to have the own management structu-es, respecting ihe diversity that exists in these structures across States/UTs. It also envisages involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions and other grassroots level structures in the management of elementary education.

(c) to (e) The information is being collected.