Points to Remember: Seven key recommendations of the Ashok Mehta Committee on Panchayati Raj.
Introduction:
The Ashok Mehta Committee, officially known as the Committee on Panchayati Raj Institutions, was appointed by the Government of India in 1977 to review the existing Panchayati Raj system and suggest improvements. Its report, submitted in 1978, significantly influenced subsequent reforms in rural local governance. The committee aimed to strengthen the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to make them more effective instruments of rural development and participatory democracy. The existing system was seen as lacking in both power and resources, hindering its effectiveness. The committee’s recommendations focused on enhancing the three-tier structure (Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, and Zilla Parishad) and clarifying their functional responsibilities.
Body:
The Ashok Mehta Committee’s report contained numerous recommendations, but seven key ones stand out:
1. Strengthening the Three-Tier Structure: The committee advocated for a robust three-tier structure of PRIs, ensuring each tier had clearly defined powers and responsibilities. This aimed to prevent overlapping functions and enhance accountability. It emphasized the importance of functional autonomy at each level.
2. Mandatory Devolution of Powers and Functions: The committee stressed the need for mandatory devolution of significant powers and functions from the state government to the PRIs. This included responsibilities related to planning, implementation, and monitoring of development programs at the grassroots level. This was crucial for empowering local communities.
3. Financial Decentralization: The committee recommended substantial financial decentralization, ensuring PRIs received adequate resources to carry out their responsibilities. This involved allocating a significant portion of state revenues to PRIs and providing them with greater control over resource allocation. This was seen as essential for their financial independence.
4. Improved Inter-Governmental Relations: The committee emphasized the need for improved coordination and cooperation between PRIs and other levels of government. This included mechanisms for effective communication, conflict resolution, and joint planning. This aimed to avoid conflicts and ensure smooth functioning.
5. Emphasis on Planning from Below: The committee advocated for a bottom-up approach to planning, where local communities actively participate in identifying their needs and priorities. This participatory approach was crucial for ensuring that development programs were relevant and effective.
6. Strengthening the Gram Sabha: The committee recognized the importance of the Gram Sabha (village assembly) as the foundation of the Panchayati Raj system. It recommended strengthening its role in decision-making and ensuring its active participation in planning and implementation of development programs. This aimed to enhance local participation and accountability.
7. Training and Capacity Building: The committee stressed the need for comprehensive training and capacity building programs for PRI members and officials. This aimed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively discharge their responsibilities. This was crucial for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of PRIs.
Conclusion:
The Ashok Mehta Committee’s recommendations aimed to revitalize the Panchayati Raj system by strengthening its structure, enhancing its powers, and improving its financial resources. The focus on devolution of power, financial decentralization, and participatory planning was crucial for empowering local communities and ensuring effective rural development. While not all recommendations were fully implemented, the committee’s report significantly influenced subsequent reforms and continues to be relevant in discussions on strengthening local governance. Moving forward, a holistic approach that combines effective implementation of the core principles of the Mehta Committee report with contemporary challenges like technology integration and addressing social inequalities is crucial for achieving sustainable and inclusive rural development, upholding the constitutional values of participatory democracy and local self-governance.
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