MLA J.T. Patil highlighted the pivotal role of Gram Panchayats in driving rural development during an inauguration event in Bagalkot.
Bagalkot
MLA J.T. Patil emphasized that the Gram Panchayat is the strongest institution in a democratic system. He stated that the Gram Panchayat and Agricultural Cooperative Societies are like two eyes driving village development, and if properly implemented, no other intervention is needed for rural progress.
He spoke during the inauguration of the new Gram Panchayat building and a solid waste processing unit, developed with support from the Heggur Gram Panchayat, Gram Panchayat Building Grant, 15th Finance Commission MGNREGA Grant, and other resources, in collaboration with the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, Zilla Panchayat Bagalkot, and Taluk Panchayat Bilagi.
MLC H.R. Nirani stressed that a clean village ensures healthy residents and urged proper use of the solid waste treatment plant. Gurupada Shivacharya Swamiji noted that selfless individuals are rare, emphasizing that buildings should not only be attractive but also have transparent administrative machinery.
Other dignitaries present included Village Panchayat Development Officer Ramesh Melnada, Village Panchayat President Renuka Pawar, Taluk Panchayat CEO Srinivasa Patila, former Zilla Panchayat President Yamanappa Rolli, and Block Congress President Hanamanta Kakandaki.
MLA JT Patil credited the late Rajiv Gandhi for amending laws to increase women’s representation in local bodies and ensuring direct transfer of central funds to Gram Panchayats.
