The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is partnering with IIM Ahmedabad to train Panchayat officials in generating their Own Source Revenue. This national initiative aims to foster financially independent, self-reliant local governments by improving revenue planning, enhancing tax collection through digital tools, and ensuring effective implementation of development projects across India.
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The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) has launched a new initiative, the Training of Trainers (ToT) program, to strengthen the financial autonomy of Panchayats across India.
It is organized in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad.
The central aim of the ToT program is to empower Panchayats to become financially self-reliant or 'Atmanirbhar Panchayats'.
By generating their Own Source Revenue (OSR), Panchayats can reduce their dependence on government grants and take greater control of their development planning. The ability to raise and manage local revenues is seen as a key indicator of a Panchayat's leadership, public trust, and institutional maturity.
The ToT program is a centrally sponsored scheme implemented under the umbrella of the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA).
The program employs a "train the trainer" model. Master Trainers from various states and union territories are trained, who then carry the knowledge back to their respective regions.
The initial round of training involves 65 Master Trainers from 16 states and UTs, with more sessions planned to cover the entire country.
The training covers a wide range of topics, including:
The Ministry is also developing a Model OSR Rules framework and a Digital Tax Collection Portal to create a supportive ecosystem for revenue generation.
The ToT program is a key component of the revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, which was launched in 2018 and extended to 2025-26.
The primary goal of RGSA is to build the governance capabilities of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to help them deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The scheme extends to all states and UTs, including areas where Part IX of the Constitution (The Panchayats) does not apply.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. "Fiscal decentralization to Panchayats is not just an administrative reform but a political necessity for deepening democracy." Critically analyze. 250 words |
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