On December 11, 2024, President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious National Panchayat Awards to 45 awardees for their outstanding contributions to sustainable and inclusive development in New Delhi.
Empowering Villages for a Developed India
Speaking at the ceremony, the President emphasized that around 64% of India’s population resides in villages, making the development of rural areas crucial for the nation’s progress. She highlighted the government’s concerted efforts over the past decade to empower Panchayats, aiming for real and lasting change.
She stressed that a self-reliant local body is the foundation for a developed India. Panchayats should focus on developing their own sources of revenue, which would not only empower the Gram Sabhas but also strengthen the nation.
Encouraging Dedication and Progress
The President congratulated all the National Panchayat Award winners, praising their dedication and hard work. She expressed confidence that this recognition would inspire them to achieve even more, encouraging other Gram Panchayats to take similar steps towards village development.
Promoting Women Empowerment
Smt. Droupadi Murmu also highlighted the role of women in Panchayati Raj institutions, noting their growing influence at the grassroots level. She urged female representatives to work fearlessly and with full efficiency, stressing the importance of women establishing themselves as independent leaders rather than relying on family members.
Ensuring Fair and Timely Elections
The President emphasized that elections make public representatives more accountable. She called for timely and fair Panchayat elections, without the influence of violence or intimidation. She reminded the gathering that villagers are choosing their representatives for their welfare.
Transparency and Accountability in Governance
The Panchayati Raj system is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in administration. The President highlighted that the voters’ trust should be maintained by elected representatives through their conduct and actions.
Resolving Local Disputes at the Panchayat Level
Many disputes in villages can be resolved at the local level without resorting to costly and time-consuming court procedures. The President urged elected representatives to take the initiative in settling disputes within the Panchayat, emphasizing that it is both their right and duty to do so.
National Panchayat Awards 2024 Categories
The National Panchayat Awards 2024 include several categories to honor Panchayats for their contributions in poverty alleviation, health, child welfare, water conservation, sanitation, infrastructure, social justice, governance, and women empowerment. These awards encourage innovative solutions for the development of rural areas, including:
- Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar
- Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar
- Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar
- Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar
- Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar
The National Panchayat Awards 2024 celebrate the hard work and dedication of Panchayats across India. These awards not only recognize the efforts in village development but also inspire others to follow suit. Through self-reliance, accountability, and empowerment, the Panchayati Raj system plays a vital role in building a stronger and more developed India.
