India, Oct. 1 -- The Government of India has issued a release:
Special Gram Sabhas across the country will assemble on 2nd October 2026 to discuss transformative governance reforms and initiatives that are strengthening Panchayats, improving public services and enhancing the quality of life in rural India. These special Gram Sabhas will also mark the launch of the People's Plan Campaign (PPC) 2026-27, "Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas", under which Gram Panchayats will prepare their Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) for Financial Year 2027-28 through participatory and evidence-based planning. The Gram Sabha discussions will bring together citizens and local representatives to review the benefits and implementation of key Government schemes and initiatives, identify local needs and gaps and deliberate on priorities for the development of their villages.
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with participating Ministries and Departments, Government of India is facilitating these discussions as part of a Whole-of-Government approach to grassroots development. The following schemes and initiatives will be highlighted during the Special Gram Sabhas:
The People's Plan Campaign has been implemented across States and Union Territories since 2018, enabling Panchayats to prepare holistic, inclusive and participatory development plans. More than 2.55 lakh Gram Panchayats prepare and upload their plans on eGramSwaraj. The Panchayat Advancement Index enables Panchayats to identify achievements and gaps across key areas of local development, providing a basis for the Gram Sabha to identify priorities and take a Sankalp for the year ahead. The Gram Sabha provides citizens with a direct platform to share their experiences, feedback and suggestions on these schemes and initiatives, and to help determine local priorities. Discussions will also promote awareness of the new criminal laws, namely the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, digital transformation and strengthening of cooperatives, and initiatives for the protection and dignity of women and children, including Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat and Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan. As Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 culminates, the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026 will also be discussed in the Gram Sabhas on 2nd October.
Citizens are earnestly invited to participate in their Special Gram Sabhas on 2nd October 2026 and contribute to the preparation of Panchayat Development Plans that reflect local needs and aspirations. Through "Sabki Yojana, Sabka Vikas", Gram Sabhas will reinforce participatory governance and contribute to building Sashakt Panchayats, Atmanirbhar Panchayats and Viksit Panchayats in the larger endeavour of Viksit Bharat.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
