Overview/ Introduction to the Topic: The Panchayati Raj system in India represents a decentralized model of governance that empowers citizens at the grassroots level. Envisioned by the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992, PRIs play a critical role in rural development, democratic participation and delivery of essential services. Assam, as a federal constituent of India, has adopted this three-tier system comprising the Gaon Panchayat, Anchalik Panchayat, and Zilla Parishad- to ensure participatory governance and local self-rule in its rural areas.

The local self-government in Assam gained formal structure and constitutional legitimacy after the enactment of the Assam Panchayat Act, 1994, in line with the 73rd Amendment. Since then, PRIs in Assam have become instrumental in implementing a variety of rural development programmes such as Mahatma Gandhi NREGA, PMAY-G, DAY-NRLM, Finance Commission Grants, NSAP and others.

Despite their potential, PRIs in Assam face challenges like capacity gaps, fund constraints, lack of awareness among elected representatives and coordination issues with line departments. Strengthening PRIs requires a comprehensive understanding of their legal framework, administrative functioning, roles and responsibilities of members and avenues for convergence with various stakeholders.

Objectives/ Purpose: This training aims to provide a detailed understanding of the structure, functioning, roles, responsibilities, and challenges of PRIs in Assam. It also seeks to build the capacities of elected representatives and officials to ensure more transparent, inclusive and effective rural governance

Target Audience: Elected Representatives of PRIs and Officials.

Key Components/ Features: Key components of the training are-

• Orientation on Constitutional and Legal Framework

• Structure and Functioning of PRIs in Assam

• Roles in Local Governance and Development

• Implementation and monitoring of various development programmes

• Administrative and Financial Management

• Capacity Building and Leadership Development

• Convergence with Line Departments and Stakeholders

• Using IT applications for ease of living

• Challenges and way forward