National Study Report on Low Participation in Gram Sabha Across States/UTs Released

📌 Summary:

• National study report "Low Participation in Gram Sabha across States and UTs" released by NITI Aayog Member Dr R. Balasubramaniam; prepared by NIRD&PR for the Ministry of Panchayati Raj
• Two-volume report analyses barriers to effective Gram Sabha participation and gives State/UT-wise, evidence-based policy recommendations, with best practices from 10 States
• Argues challenges go beyond low turnout - they are rooted in systemic and institutional barriers needing targeted reforms; stresses incentivising citizens to take ownership of local development
• Calls for enabling mechanisms for meaningful, sustained engagement, especially of women, youth and marginalized communities
• Frames participation as a journey - awareness -> active engagement -> empowerment when the State responds to Gram Sabha aspirations - linked to Viksit Bharat 2047

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS2 (Panchayati Raj, grassroots/direct democracy, decentralisation, local self-government and citizen participation).

📝 Prelims Facts:

• Report prepared by NIRD&PR (National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj) for the Ministry of Panchayati Raj
• Released by NITI Aayog Member Dr R. Balasubramaniam; two-volume report covering best practices from 10 States

🔑 Key Term: Gram Sabha - the assembly of all registered voters of a village (Panchayat area); the constitutional foundation of direct democracy in the Panchayati Raj system.