Panchayati Raj Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj highlighted the importance of focusing on quality outcomes in the preparation of the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP) to bring about real change at the grassroots level. He emphasized that proper planning for asset creation through the GPDP can help in avoiding resource wastage. Bharadwaj stressed the need to enhance Panchayat-led planning by ensuring sustainability, clear institutional responsibilities, and efficient resource utilization.
The Secretary also emphasized the role of digital platforms in ensuring long-term service delivery at the grassroots level. He mentioned that increased citizen participation in Gram Sabhas can lead to more inclusive decision-making processes. The workshop, which aims to strengthen participatory planning and enhance the quality of Panchayat development plans, has gathered senior officials from Central Ministries, representatives from Panchayati Raj Departments, and other key stakeholders from across the country.
Ashok K.K. Meena, Secretary of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, highlighted the significant infrastructure development achieved through initiatives like Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen). He emphasized the importance of Gram Panchayats in ensuring the sustained operation, maintenance, and effective utilization of these assets for better service delivery. Meena called for dynamic and outcome-oriented GPDPs that integrate resource management, asset maintenance, and digital transparency.
Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, discussed the evolving nature of the GPDP and the necessity for thematic, quality-focused planning. He pointed out that despite the availability of funds, suboptimal outcomes often result from duplicated activities and weak convergence between Central and State schemes. Lohani stressed the importance of convergence across departments and the utilization of digital tools to enhance accountability.
