Gram Sabhas, PM's address to mark Panchayati Raj Day

In preparation for National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD) on April 24, the Director of Panchayati Raj, Jammu and Kashmir, chaired a meeting with Assistant Commissioners Panchayats (ACPs) to finalise modalities for the celebrations across the Union Territory.

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Emphasising the importance of grassroots democratic institutions, Director Sham Lal directed all ACPs to ensure that every Gram Panchayat convenes a Gram Sabha on April 24 to deliberate on key local governance issues, citizen-centric schemes and developmental achievements.

“The National Panchayati Raj Day is not just a ceremonial event but a reaffirmation of our commitment to participatory governance and inclusive development,” he said.

During the meeting, Sham Lal instructed officials to place special emphasis on structured dialogues at the Gram Sabhas, particularly focusing on water management and conservation and sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

To enhance public awareness, Panchayat Bhawans have been instructed to prominently display details of Village Water and Sanitation Committee (VWSC) members, including their roles and responsibilities. The State Panchayat Resource Centre (SPRC) and District Panchayat Resource Centres (DPRCs) were also directed to coordinate with field officials to ensure seamless execution of the event.

Lal further stressed the need to maximise community involvement, urging the participation of ASHA workers, Anganwadi staff and local residents in the Gram Sabha proceedings. The Director also directed that detailed records of all Gram Sabha proceedings, resolutions and certifications be maintained and uploaded on the official platform meetingonline.gov.in.

A major highlight of the celebrations will be the live broadcast of the Prime Minister’s address, for which necessary arrangements are being made across Panchayats in the Union Territory.

The NPRD 2025 celebrations aim to commemorate the legacy of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.