TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 19, 2024: In adherence to the Chhattisgarh Panchayat Raj Act, the state is gearing up for Gram Sabha meetings, scheduled to commence on January 23. As outlined in the act, a minimum of one meeting is mandated every three months. Additionally, the Chhattisgarh Government, through the Panchayat and Rural Development Department, has directed the organization of Gram Sabha meetings on specific dates—January 23, April 14, August 20, and October 2—while emphasizing compulsory meetings in June and November each year.
The Panchayat Department has issued instructions to all District Collectors to formulate timetables for conducting Gram Sabha meetings in every Gram Panchayat Headquarters and their dependent villages. Special responsibilities have been assigned to officers and employees as per local requirements.
Key Agenda Points for January 23 Gram Sabha Meetings
The Panchayat Directorate has outlined 17 crucial discussion points for the upcoming Gram Sabha meetings on January 23. Some of the prominent topics include a compliance report on previous resolutions, a review of the income and expenditure of the last quarter for Panchayats, scrutiny of funds sanctioned and spent, and the current status of ongoing projects. Other key points encompass reviewing demand and status of employment under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, social audit of pension schemes, distribution of food grains to beneficiaries, and discussing the progress of mandatory tax imposition and collection.
Specialized Discussions and Committees
In addition to the standard agenda, discussions will also touch upon Resource Planning and Management Committee and Peace and Justice Committee matters, adhering to PESA Rules 19 and 20 in the Gram Sabhas of Scheduled Areas. Furthermore, the Gram Sabha is expected to pass a resolution under PESA Rule 23 (1.2) to open an account in the name of the Gram Sabha Fund in the nearest nationalized bank. This is in line with the provisions of PESA Rule 2022, focusing on reviewing resources, local institutions, lease of small water bodies, auction of markets, excavation, and business of ordinary sand.
Nodal Officer Teams and Timely Organization
To ensure the smooth conduct of Gram Sabha meetings, nodal officer teams, including in-charge and members, are being constituted. In Gram Panchayats where the Secretary is in additional charge, the nodal officer will oversee the proceedings. District Collectors are entrusted with the responsibility of preparing timetables for organizing Gram Sabha meetings across respective villages and Gram Panchayat headquarters.
The Gram Sabha meetings aim to foster community engagement and address local concerns, fostering a participatory approach in governance and decision-making.
