The Ministry of Panchayati Raj inaugurated a National Workshop on the Preparation of Panchayat Development Plans on 4 May 2026. The opening session launched the People’s Plan Campaign booklet for Panchayat Development Plan 2026-27, the report of the Committee on Enhancing the Quality of Gram Panchayat Development Plans and the revamped eGramSwaraj planning portal. The workshop aimed to make local planning more participatory, inclusive and outcome-oriented.
Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj said Gram Panchayat Development Plans should focus on quality outcomes and real grassroots change, not mere compliance. He linked better asset creation with prevention of resource wastage and stressed sustainability, clear institutional responsibilities, effective resource use, digital platforms and greater citizen participation in Gram Sabhas.
Ashok K.K. Meena, Secretary in the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, said Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission Grameen had created large infrastructure, but sustained operation, maintenance and effective use now required stronger Gram Panchayat planning. He called for dynamic plans that integrate resource use, asset upkeep and digital transparency, and also emphasised Village Health and Sanitation Committees and own-source revenue.
Additional Secretary Sushil Kumar Lohani pointed to duplication of activities and weak convergence between Central and State schemes despite fund availability. He highlighted an 84 per cent increase in allocations to Rural Local Bodies under the 16th Finance Commission, ₹4.35 lakh crore for 2026-31, and 15 quality indicators for GPDP. The sessions also covered untied grants, self-help group convergence, PESA planning, Gram Manchitra and evidence-based planning through the Panchayat Advancement Index.