Decentralised participatory planning at Gram Panchayat level is the first step towards sustainable rural development. Any interventions in the direction of rural development must be based on felt local needs and inclusive. Ensuring effective participation in the planning process helps identify needs and make developmental programmes/ projects inclusive and responsive. Gram Sabha is the institution to promote public participation in rural local governance. Article 243G of the Indian Constitution mandates preparation of plans for economic development and social justice by Panchayats. Fourteenth Finance Commission (FFC) has awarded a substantial grant of Rs.200292.20 crore exclusively for the Gram Panchayats to be devolved over a period of five years starting from FY 2015-16. The guidelines issued by Ministry of Finance for the release and utilisation of the local bodies grant stipulate that proper plans are to be prepared by the Gram Panchayats. In this context, an action research project in five Gram Panchayats in Gharaunda Block in Karnal district of Haryana to facilitate people’s participation in the Gram Panchayat Development Planning and also in the meetings of Gram Sabha was undertaken in the year 2016-2017. Action research included baseline survey, collaborating with administration and civil society, capacity building of elected representatives and functionaries, Gram Sabha Mobilisation etc.
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