Deputy Chief Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara said Karnataka’s three-tier Panchayat Raj system has become a model for the world due to its focus on decentralised administration and people’s participation. He was speaking while inaugurating a three-day training workshop for newly appointed village panchayat administrators, Panchayat Development Officers and secretaries at the Zilla Panchayat office on Wednesday.
Dr. Parameshwara said no other country has a similar three-level local administration system consisting of Gram Panchayat, Taluk Panchayat and Zilla Panchayat. He said the system was created under the idea of Gram Swaraj, where people should have the power to manage local issues and participate in governance.
He explained that Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Gram Swaraj was based on self-governance, and after independence, the government included decentralisation of power in the Constitution. As a result, India, especially Karnataka, has developed a strong Panchayat system. He said the system initially faced criticism over corruption and misuse of power, but over time its positive impact has helped citizens receive the benefits of democracy at the local level.
The Deputy Chief Minister said technology should be used effectively to make administration easier and reduce the workload of officials. He advised newly appointed officers to understand village-level problems and work honestly to provide quick and fair solutions to the public. He stressed that transparent administration and responsible functioning are important for the success of Panchayat Raj institutions.
State Special Representative in New Delhi T.B. Jayachandra said training programmes are essential for officials to ensure transparent and efficient administration. He urged officers to complete public works within the given time and avoid corruption while serving people.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer B.V. Ashvija said the workshop was organised to improve the knowledge and skills of new administrators and secretaries through guidance from experienced resource persons. The training focuses on good governance and effective implementation of development programmes at the village level.
BMTC Vice President Niket Raj M., District Collector Shub Kalyan, District Superintendent of Police K.V. Ashok, officials from various departments and other dignitaries were present during the programme.
