The Gram Sabha is the Most Powerful Platform for Rural Development: HIRD Director Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan
The Panchayati Raj system constitutes the very roots of democracy, empowering people at the village level with the authority to make decisions. This was expressed by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development (HIRD), while addressing the Gram Sabha of Village Kalsi via an online medium on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day.
Girish Saini
Apr 25, 2026 04:59
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Nilokheri, April 25, 2026: The Panchayati Raj system constitutes the very roots of democracy, empowering people at the village level with the authority to make decisions. This was expressed by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development (HIRD), while addressing the Gram Sabha of Village Kalsi via an online medium on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day.
Describing the Gram Sabha as the most potent platform for rural development, Dr. Chauhan said that it serves to ensure transparency, accountability, and public participation. He further urged villagers to participate enthusiastically in Gram Sabha meetings so that development schemes can be formulated in alignment with their specific needs and subsequently implemented effectively.
Highlighting the significance of Panchayati Raj Day, the HIRD Director noted that this occasion inspires us to strengthen the roots of democracy and empower local self-governance. The objective of this day is to raise awareness among people at the village level regarding their rights and duties, thereby enabling them to play an active role in the development process.
He added that, under the leadership of Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Panchayati Raj Minister Krishna Lal Panwar, the jurisdiction of Panchayats has been expanded, and their financial powers have also been enhanced. The Panchayat Department has finalized preparations to honor Gram Panchayats that have performed exceptionally well in achieving Sustainable Development Goals within their respective areas, under the ambit of the 'Chief Minister Jagrit Gram Panchayat Scheme.'
Dr. Chauhan called upon the Gram Panchayat of Kalsi—on this Panchayati Raj Day—to resolve to ensure that every needy resident receives the benefits of all Central and State government schemes to which they are entitled.
The event was coordinated by Gurvinder Singh, a Senior Advisor at the National Institute of Rural Development. Attendees present on the occasion included Sarpanch Sahil Kumar, Village Secretary Subhash, Anganwadi workers Sukhwinder Kaur and Maya Devi, Panchayat member Sheeshpal, along with other villagers and students.
