DIMAPUR: A block-level training under the Revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) was conducted at the Community Management Training Centre, Shamator, with the objective of strengthening grassroots governance and enhancing the institutional capacity of village-level functionaries.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Block Development Officer (BDO), Shamator, Penwang Konyak, who highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening village-level institutions and improving grassroots governance. Addressing the gathering, EAC (HQ), Shamator, Mekato J Aye, said the aspirations and developmental needs of rural communities were evolving, requiring village-level institutions to adopt a more proactive approach towards identifying emerging needs and planning sustainable, community-driven and future-oriented initiatives.
He stressed that every Village Council should develop a forward-looking vision for its village, taking into account local resources, community aspirations, available opportunities and long-term developmental priorities. Aye also underscored the importance of understanding the legal and institutional framework governing Village Councils and Village Development Boards (VDBs), noting that both institutions had distinct but complementary responsibilities.
Emphasising transparency, proper coordination and collective responsibility, he said institutional effectiveness depended on individuals understanding and respecting their respective roles and mandates. He reminded participants that while individuals and office-bearers may change, institutions must remain strong and continue functioning effectively. The training covered key aspects of rural governance and development, including the People’s Plan Campaign (PPC), preparation of the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP), utilisation of the Panchayat Nirnay App, Nagaland Village Council Act, VDB Model Rules, Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) and Own Source Revenue (OSR). The sessions focused on familiarising participants with relevant provisions, planning mechanisms, digital platforms and institutional responsibilities essential for effective village administration and participatory development.
