CEC Approves Standardized Honorariums for Panchayat Trainers

The initiative enables PRI officials to undergo long-term domestic training programs at the Institutes of Excellence for up to one year.

Gram Panchayat trainees | Representational image | X: @mopr_goi

New Delhi: In a move to bolster grassroots governance across India, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) announced several key decisions at its 8th meeting. These decisions, focusing on standardized honorariums, long-term training, infrastructure development, and technological advancements, aim to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and enhance service delivery at the village level, a PIB press release stated.

Chaired by Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), the CEC approved the standardization of honorarium rates for Master Trainers, Guest Faculties, and Eminent Resource Persons across all States and Union Territories. This move aims to ensure equitable compensation and attract high-quality trainers, promoting consistency and capacity-building efforts within PRIs.

Furthermore, the CEC greenlit funding for long-term domestic training programs for Panchayat officials. The initiative enables PRI officials to undergo long-term domestic training programs at Institutes of Excellence for up to one year, enhancing their skill set in areas like spatial planning, resource mobilization, and disaster management.

In a bid to strengthen Panchayat infrastructure, the CEC approved the construction of 3,301 Gram Panchayat Bhawans equipped with Common Service Centres (CSCs). Additionally, 22,164 computers were sanctioned for Gram Panchayats across various states. This initiative addresses infrastructure gaps, enabling efficient administrative functioning and digital governance in rural areas.

Recognizing the importance of technological advancement, the CEC upgraded computer labs in State Panchayat Resource Centers (SPRCs) in 25 States and District Panchayat Resource Centers (DPRCs) in 395 Districts. The upgrade will include the latest computer equipment and technological aids, creating a conducive learning environment for Panchayat functionaries.

The CEC approved the construction of 400 Panchayat Bhawans-cum-Common Service Centers in Arunachal Pradesh, demonstrating its commitment to developing Vibrant Villages in border areas. These initiatives signify a significant step towards strengthening Panchayati Raj in India, empowering local governments, and improving service delivery to the citizens.