+
Orissa High Court: Sarpanches Included in Rural Development Decisions
ECONOMY & POLICY

Orissa High Court: Sarpanches Included in Rural Development Decisions

In a significant move towards ensuring grassroots representation in rural development initiatives, the Orissa High Court has directed the state government to include local public representatives, specifically Sarpanches, in the decision-making process for projects under the 'Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha' scheme. Launched by the state government in July last year, the scheme aims at augmenting rural infrastructure development. However, the absence of Sarpanches in the team finalizing projects under the scheme had sparked concerns and led to several petitions being filed in the High Court.

Last October, petitions were submitted to the court, urging the inclusion of local Sarpanches in the decision-making process for projects under the scheme. The petitioners, including Prajit Kumar Bhoj and others, argued that the exclusion of Sarpanches from the project selection process limited the effectiveness of the scheme and neglected the pivotal role played by these local representatives in village development.

Responding to these concerns, Justice B P Routray directed the state government to ensure the involvement of local public representatives, particularly Sarpanches, in the project selection process before shortlisting any project under the developmental scheme. The court's ruling underscores the importance of local representation in decision-making regarding rural development initiatives, highlighting the vital role Sarpanches play in empowering villages and fostering sustainable development.

The petitioners' counsel emphasized that Sarpanches cannot be sidelined or ignored in the implementation of developmental projects in villages. By incorporating their perspectives and insights into the decision-making process, the government can ensure more inclusive and effective development strategies that truly address the needs and priorities of rural communities.

The Orissa High Court's directive serves as a reminder of the significance of community engagement and participatory governance in driving meaningful progress at the grassroots level. By involving local representatives like Sarpanches in the planning and execution of rural development schemes, the government can enhance transparency, accountability, and ultimately, the impact of its initiatives on the lives of people in rural areas.

In a significant move towards ensuring grassroots representation in rural development initiatives, the Orissa High Court has directed the state government to include local public representatives, specifically Sarpanches, in the decision-making process for projects under the 'Ama Odisha Nabin Odisha' scheme. Launched by the state government in July last year, the scheme aims at augmenting rural infrastructure development. However, the absence of Sarpanches in the team finalizing projects under the scheme had sparked concerns and led to several petitions being filed in the High Court. Last October, petitions were submitted to the court, urging the inclusion of local Sarpanches in the decision-making process for projects under the scheme. The petitioners, including Prajit Kumar Bhoj and others, argued that the exclusion of Sarpanches from the project selection process limited the effectiveness of the scheme and neglected the pivotal role played by these local representatives in village development. Responding to these concerns, Justice B P Routray directed the state government to ensure the involvement of local public representatives, particularly Sarpanches, in the project selection process before shortlisting any project under the developmental scheme. The court's ruling underscores the importance of local representation in decision-making regarding rural development initiatives, highlighting the vital role Sarpanches play in empowering villages and fostering sustainable development. The petitioners' counsel emphasized that Sarpanches cannot be sidelined or ignored in the implementation of developmental projects in villages. By incorporating their perspectives and insights into the decision-making process, the government can ensure more inclusive and effective development strategies that truly address the needs and priorities of rural communities. The Orissa High Court's directive serves as a reminder of the significance of community engagement and participatory governance in driving meaningful progress at the grassroots level. By involving local representatives like Sarpanches in the planning and execution of rural development schemes, the government can enhance transparency, accountability, and ultimately, the impact of its initiatives on the lives of people in rural areas.

Next Story
Real Estate

Signature Global Gets CARE A+ Rating for Rs 8.75-Billion NCD Issue

Signature Global (India), a leading real estate company, has received a CARE A+ rating with a Stable outlook from CareEdge Ratings for its proposed long-term Non-Convertible Debenture (NCD) issue of Rs 8.75 billion. The funds will be used to refinance existing debt and support business expansion. The rating reflects the company's steady sales and collections, backed by over 146 lakh sq ft of developed residential and commercial space, timely delivery of projects, and diversification across project stages. In FY25, Signature Global recorded a 42 per cent year-on-year increase in booki..

Next Story
Technology

Six ways a smarter workflow leads to faster, more accurate bids

In today’s fast-paced civil construction environment, estimators need more than just solid numbers. They need smart, streamlined processes. This article explores six key ways connected workflows can transform the estimated approach, help in minimising risk, move faster, and improve accuracy. By integrating tools, data, and teams, one can produce stronger bids with less rework, fewer surprises, and more confidence. As an estimator, the job goes beyond producing numbers. They are responsible for delivering bids that are fast, accurate, and built to win. In today’s civil construction ind..

Next Story
Real Estate

Experion Launches Women-Only Co-Living Project in Greater Noida

Experion, part of Singapore-based AT Capital Group, has launched its first co-living space under its managed rental housing brand, VLIV, in Greater Noida. The all-women residence features 730 twin-sharing beds with a strong focus on safety, comfort, and well-being. VLIV has committed a $300 million investment to create a structured, service-led rental housing ecosystem in India. The brand aims to scale up to 20,000 beds in the next few years, with a long-term target of 100,000 beds nationwide. “India’s rental housing is fragmented. VLIV is our way of building long-term, dependabl..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?