New Delhi, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : NITI Aayog organized a national workshop titled “Developed Panchayats: Connecting People, Places, Resources, and Opportunities” on September 28, 2026. This event was conducted in collaboration with the Golap Borbora State Institute of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development in Assam as part of its State Support Mission initiative.
The workshop aimed to empower gram panchayats as institutions capable of promoting inclusive development, improved public services, and sustainable rural growth. During the inaugural session, speakers stressed the need for decentralized governance, capacity building, digitalization, and enhanced coordination among various schemes to build effective gram panchayats.
Discussions at the workshop highlighted the necessity of moving beyond traditional area-based approaches to local development. Experts advocated for the adoption of spatial and integrated planning methods. Emphasis was placed on utilizing GIS, geospatial data, gram master plans, and digital platforms to accurately identify local resources, infrastructure deficits, land use, and developmental potentials.
Participants also discussed the integration of spatial information with the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP), e-Gramswaraj, and the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) to create evidence-based and well-coordinated development strategies. Additionally, the constitutional framework of panchayati raj institutions and provisions related to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment were examined.
The need for clearer task allocation, adequate financial resources, appropriate human resources, and greater decision-making powers for panchayats was emphasized to enhance their effectiveness. Strengthening the role of gram sabhas and institutional accountability was also highlighted as crucial.
The workshop underscored the importance of capacity building and institutional strengthening for the effective functioning of panchayats. Participants suggested training elected representatives and panchayat staff in data analysis, resource mobilization, investment prioritization, program coordination, and outcome monitoring.
Moreover, the necessity of promoting digital and hybrid learning models, technical assistance, and capacity development programs was reiterated. Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, a member of NITI Aayog, urged a spatial planning approach to panchayat-level schemes rather than limiting them to individual sectors. He advocated for a greater focus on developing human capital, social capital, and local economic clusters.
Dr. Balasubramaniam believed that better identification of resources and opportunities at the panchayat level could revitalize economic activities in rural areas. The workshop identified key priorities for strengthening panchayats, including clearer task assignments, increased financial resources, developing self-revenue sources, providing technical support, and enhancing the activity of district planning committees.
Additionally, the need for improved coordination among various government departments and schemes, as well as the integration of rural and urban development plans at the district level, was discussed.
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