PANCHAYATI RAJ

Decentralisation NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE: Decentralisation in Kerala: Key issues in institutional development PROJECT LEADER: Annamalai, V  STARTING DATE: September, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: December, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To analyse the campaign mode of decentralization of power to Panchayati Raj Institutions vis-à-vis functions, functionaries and finances;2. To appreciate the role of people’s campaign in strengthening of Panchayati Raj Institutions.  METHODOLOGY: Information was collected from representatives of NGOs and CBOs through discussions, interviews, observations and questionnaires.  STUDY AREAS: Kerala  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS; DECENTRALISATION;INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT;KERALA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE: Local institutions, social capital and decentralization : An exploratory study  PROJECT LEADER: Annamalai, V  STARTING DATE: September, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: November, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To analyse and identify the major activities of local institutions like panchayati raj institutions, CBOs and NGOs; 2. To explore and analyse critically the concept and role of social capital in strengthening these institutions; and 3. To suggest measures and policies in building up decentralized institutions for better governance and fulfillment of local needs. METHODOLOGY:  Data were collected from the members and representatives of NGOs  and CBOs through discussions, individual and group interviews, observations and questionnaire. STUDY AREAS: Rajasthan  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;LOCAL INSTITUTIONS;DECENTRALISATION;VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS; SOCIAL CAPITAL; RAJASTHAN Decentralised Governance NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE: Community empowerment through decentralized governance: A study of gram sabha in Rajasthan  PROJECT LEADER: Sarumathy, M  STARTING DATE: September, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: March, 2003  OBJECTIVES: 1. To examine the dimensions of gram sabha in the process of village development 2. To analyse the effectiveness of gram sabhas with regard to its power in social audit and 3. To suggest measures for making gram sabhas effective instrument of decentralized planning  METHODOLOGY: Information would be collected from elected representatives, villagers and officials through interview method.  STUDY AREAS: Two gram sabhas in a district of Rajasthan  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT; PANCHAYATI RAJ;COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT;DECENTRALISED GOVERNANCE;GRAM SABHA;RAJASTHAN GramPanchayats NAME OF INSTITUTION: Madhya Pradesh Institute of Social Science Research TITLE: Panchayaton ki karya pranalika moolyankan : Dewas zile ki Gram panchayaton ke sandarbh mein ek adhyayan. (Hindi) PROJECT LEADER(S): Bhatt, Ashis. STARTING DATE: April 2000.  DATE OF COMPLETION: April 2001 PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1.To analyze the working of Gram Panchayats; 2.To evaluate the works done by the Gram Panchayats; and 3.To assess the role of Gram Panchayats for comprehensive rural development. Methodology: Information is collected from 9 gram panchayats of Dewas district through informal interviews with the panchayat raj representatives and villagers. Group discussions and personal observation of accomplished works by the selected panchayats were also formed the source of information. Study area: State: Madhya Pradesh; District: Dewas; Block: All Blocks. PLANNED OUTPUT: Report KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; GRAM PANCHAYATS; RURAL DEVELOPMENT; MADHYA PRADESH. NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Micro Planning (CMP) (NIRD)  TITLE: Status of planning in a gram panchayat with focus on peoples participation and resource mobilization: A case study in Andaman and Nicobar Island (UT)  PROJECT LEADER: Shanthudu, D  STARTING DATE: July, 2003  DATE OF COMPLETION: October, 2003  OBJECTIVES: 1. To review the planning process followed in the preparation of plan for a gram panchayat with focus on peoples participation 2. To examine the resource mobilization for implementation of the development plan of the gram panchayats.3. To identify the constraints in relation to people’s participation and resource mobilization and suggest measures. STUDY AREAS: Andaman and Nicobar Islands KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;PANCHAYATI RAJ;GRAM PANCHAYATS;PEOPLES PARTICIPATION;RESOURCE MOBILISATION;ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS Gram Sabha NAME OF INSTITUTION: Madhya Pradesh Institute of Social Science Research  TITLE: Panchayat raj system in scheduled areas of Madhya Pradesh : A study with special reference to gram sabhas. PROJECT LEADER(S): Singh, Yatindra STARTING DATE: July, 2000 DATE OF COMPLETION: February, 2001 NAME OF SPONSORER: Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi. 110 001 PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: (1)To know the level of awareness among villagers about Gram Sabha; (2)To find out the level of participation of villagers in Gram Sabha; and (3)To assess the level of information among Panchyat Raj Representatives and examine their attitude about Gram Sabha Methodology: Data were collected from 108 tribals including panchayat representatives and tribal people of 9 gram panchayats in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh through personal interview .  PRESENT STATUS: Completed: Study observed that the tribal community is less informed about the specific provisions of the new panchayati raj system. As Gram Sabha is the basic institution and all the decisions are to be taken by it, the participation of tribals in both qualitative and quantitative terms is important.Study suggests that there is a need to make the society aware for this specific task through training and awareness campaigns.   PLANNED OUTPUT: Report  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT; GRAM SABHAS; MADHYA PRADESH. NAME OF THE CENTRE:  Centre for Social Development (CSD) (NIRD) TITLE:  A study of social audit (SA) of PRIs by gram sabhas in Himachal Pradesh PROJECT LEADER: Rajula Devi  STARTING DATE: June, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: August, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To examine the process of SA in PR organizations;2. To examine the barriers to social audit in PRIs; and 3. To suggest improvements in strengthening social auditing system  METHODOLOGY: Information was collected through discussions, gathering views and opinions from the officials of PRIs  STUDY AREAS: Himachal Pradesh  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;SOCIAL AUDIT; GRAM SABHA;HIMACHAL PRADESH Local self governance NAME OF INSTITUTION: State Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (SIPARD)  MAILING ADDRESS: A.D.Nagar, Agartala Tripura--799 003 TELEPHONE NO. (0381)230613, 374048 FAX: (0381)230613. E-MAIL ADDRESS: Sipard@tsu.trp.nic.in  WEBSITE: www.tripura.nic.in/sipard  TITLE: Women in local self governance : A case study of Tripura PROJECT LEADER(S): Mangathai, R A STARTING DATE: February, 2000. DATE OF COMPLETION: February, 2001. PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1)To understand how political empowerment of the marginalized sections is being translated in to development practice; 2) To assess the nature of participation of women as democratic leaders; 3) To comprehend the way in which Local Self Governments are facilitating the empowerment of women especially after the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution; 4) To see whether women as a group are discriminated in the discharge of duties and are they equipped with the required knowledge and awareness; and  5).To know the family response, role-conflict and the nature of the support women do experience in the democratic polity in a patriarchic society. Methodology: Information was collected from the woman members of panchayats of all the four districts in the State of Tripura, through random sampling methodology PRESENT STATUS: Completed.Major findings and conclusions:Higher secondary is the average level of education. Illiterates are 10% only. This reflects the educational scenario of Tripura, where both enrollment rates and dropout rates are high. Among the tribal women educational levels are lower, most of the tribal women are educated up to primary level only.2.The reservation policy for the women through the 73rd amendment had created a favourable environment for the women. Regarding their motivation it is noticed that husband is the main motivator for 80% of the married women. Other motivators are women leaders and politically active mothers. 13% of the non-tribals have claimed to be self-motivated. KEYWORDS: WOMEN;WOMEN DEVELOPMENT;LOCAL SELF GOVERNANCE ; TRIPURA Local self government NAME OF INSTITUTION: Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) TITLE: Local Self-Governance in Orissa: A study of the functioning of panchayati raj system in the post 73rd Constitutional Amendment period PROJECT LEADER(S): Sahoo, Praful Kumar STARTING DATE: 2000 NAME OF SPONSORER: The Netherlands Organisation for International Development Co-operation,(NOVIB), The Hague  PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives:The study aimed at pinpointing the strength and weakness of the working of Panchayati Raj institutions in Orissa. The objectives are to know the extent of decentralised planning, the nature and extent of popular participation in the affairs of the Panchayat through Palli Sabha and Gram Sabha with special focus on weaker section and women. The state (13 undivided districts)was taken as the population of the study with 1 Block of each district, 2 Gram Panchayats from each Block and half of revenue villages from each Gram Panchayat were taken as the sampling unit.  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;LOCALSELF GOVERNMENT;ORISSA Panchayati Raj NAME OF INSTITUTION: Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) TITLE: A Study of finances of panchayat in  Orissa STARTING DATE: 1998 DATE OF COMPLETION: Ongoing NAME OF SPONSORER: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), New Delhi. PROJECT ABSTRACT :  This was an analytical study to understand the power of PRIs in raising funds for their own panchayat in the context of implementation of PRI Act. Coverage was 2 blocks in 1 district. Questionnaires were administered among various stakeholders of PRI and detailed information gathered through common consensus by organising workshops/seminars among various interest groups. KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH NAME OF INSTITUTION: Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) TITLE: A Study on status of devolution in PRIs in Orissa STARTING DATE: 1999 DATE OF COMPLETION: Ongoing NAME OF SPONSORER: The Netherlands Organisations for International Development Co-opration,(NOVIB), The Hague. PROJECT ABSTRACT: The study was carried out to understand the whole scenario and to prepare a status document on post-97 PRI elections. The methodology was based on stakeholders analysis, focus group discussion, meeting with individuals etc.  KEYWORDS: PACHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;ORISSA NAME OF INSTITUTION: Centre for Youth and Social Development (CYSD) TITLE: A study on status of women in panchayats in Orissa STARTING DATE: 1998 DATE OF COMPLETION: Ongoing NAME OF SPONSORER: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), MAILING ADDRESS: 42,Tughlakabad Institutional Area, New Delhi. 110 062  PROJECT ABSTRACT: The study focused to look at the personal profiles of women PRI representatives and their relationship with their family and outsiders, and to assess their level of participation in PRI activities.  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;WOMEN;ORISSA NAME OF INSTITUTION: Council for Social Development (CSD) TITLE: A Study on participation of SC members in panchayati raj institutions in Andhra Pradesh  PROJECT LEADER(S): Venkata Ravi, R PROJECT ASSOCIATE(S): Venkataramana, M and Sunder Raj, D STARTING DATE: April, 2000 DATE OF COMPLETION: March, 2001 NAME OF SPONSORER: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India MAILING ADDRESS(S): Monitoring Cell (SCD)  Shastri Bhavan NEW DELHI-110 001 PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1) To study the types of activities and decisions related to development work in village, mandal (block)and Zilla Panchayats; 2) To analysis the profile of SC members who participated in Decision Making Process with managerial perspective; 3) To identify and analyse the extent of SC in general and SC women in particularly participating in decision making process; 4) To identify the determinants of SC members participation in decision making process; and 5) To suggest strategies for enhancing SC members participation in decision making Process. Methodology: Collected data from the elected SC members (covering ZPTCs, MPTCs and Village Panchayat Members)about their participation in decision making process; an interview schedule was used. Detailed discussions were held with officials of PRI and also elected leaders of PRI for the purpose of the study. Apart from this, research investigators have maintained a field diary to make note of their observation. Study Area: Andhra Pradesh, Nellore District PLANNED OUTPUT: Report.  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;SCHEDULED CASTE MEMBERS;ANDHRA PRADESH NAME OF INSTITUTION: Haryana Institute of Rural Development MAILING ADDRESS: Nilokheri (Karnal). Haryana TELEPHONE NO: 01745-46030 FAX: 01745-46049 TITLE: Functioning of Panchayati Raj in Haryana: An Analytical Study  PROJECT LEADER(S): Singh, Surat  STARTING DATE: 1999  DATE OF COMPLETION: 2000 PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1)To discuss the historical background of the PRIs in Haryana; 2). To examine the extent of people's participation in decision making in general and representatives of weaker sections and women in particular; 3). To study the development works being carried out by the PRIs in the villages; and 4).To assess the extent of the devolution of functions and finances in consonance with the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act. Methodology: The study will be confined to the state of Haryana. Four districts will be selected for the study representing different divisions of the state. Study area: State: Haryana; District: 1.Jind; 2. Rohtak; 3. Gurgaon; 4.Ambala, Villages covered: Forty. KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS; PEOPLES PARTICIPATION; HARYANA. NAME OF INSTITUTION: Institute of Applied Manpower Research TITLE: Social-economic characteristics of elected women members of panchayati raj institutions (Action Research) PROJECT LEADER(S): Ramanujam, M S PROJECT ASSOCIATE(S): Berry, V K STARTING DATE: January, 1998 DATE OF COMPLETION: February, 2000 NAME OF COLLOBORATOR: Ministry of Rural Development Krishi Bhawan NEW DELHI-110 001  FAX(C): 3387536  PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1)find out the socio-economic and educational back ground of elected women  members; 2)discover the real situation in regard to carrying out the constitutional obligations in PRI's by women members; 3)identify constraints  and draw backs the women panchayat members face in carrying out their tasks; 4) study the level of satisfaction and problems faced in the implementation of poverty alleviation programmes; 5) examine the interface between the elected representatives and the Block Development Officers/Panchayat Secretary; and; 6)know their perceptions in conceptualizing and formulating programme of development. Methodology: The methodology of the study involved a mix of questionnaires and formats, discussions and personal visits to the offices of the different tiers of the Panchayati Raj Institutions of selected states. The information was collected by two ways (1)Computation of information from the records of the PRIs, and (2)by recording in structured questionnaires, the opinions/views and other information obtained during the personal interview of elected women members of the PRIs. Study Area: The study was conducted in four states, from each state two districts were selected and within each block four villages were selected PRESENT STATUS: All the elected women members in Kerala and a large majority  in Maharashtra were aware of the number of meetings of Gram Sabha to be held in a year while in the states of Orissa and Uttar Pradesh the awareness was substantially low. At block Panchayat level, the awareness about poverty alleviation programmes among the chairpersons was cent percent but in the case of elected members it was comparatively low. A majority of both the chairpersons and the elected members were of the opinion that poverty alleviation programmes were effective in alleviating poverty but the extent of effectiveness varied among the states. Most of the chairpersons and the elected members were largely satisfied with the existing system of selection of programmes/scheme of development undertaken by the PRIs. The programmes are identified taking into account the felt needs of the area and discussion on each one of them  PLANNED OUTPUT: Report  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS WOMEN  NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Behavioral & Organizational Development (CBOD) (NIRD)  TITLE: Role of panchayati raj institutions (PRI) in expansion of education (With a special reference to adult literacy) PROJECT LEADER: Yogananda Sastry, CH  PROJECT TEAM: Singhal, C S Vijayakumar, S Aneesuddin, M  STARTING DATE: July, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: September, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1.To understand the role performed by the PRIs in expansion of education 2. To study the composition of village education society and the powers and functions listed relating to education (Primary, Secondary, non-formal and adult) 3. To assess the official and non-official relationship impact on the functioning of the village education society 4. To examine the quantum of training/orientation provided to the PRI elected members about their role in implementation of education programmes.  STUDY AREAS: One district each in Karnataka,Maharashtra, West Bengal and Gujarat  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT; PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;ADULT LITERACY NAME OF THE CENTRE: CENTRE FOR DISASTER MANAGEMENT AND RURAL RECONSTRUCTION (CD & RR) (NIRD) TITLE: Developing model plan for flood disaster management and mitigation at gram panchayat level  PROJECT LEADER: Thapliyal, B K  PROJECT TEAM: Madhava Rao, V and Harman R R  STARTING DATE: October/November 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: March 2003  OBJECTIVES: 1. To analyze the ground situation based on natural hazards mapping, vulnerability analysis and risk assessment; and 2. Based on above, formulate a model plan for disaster preparedness and mitigation for the gram panchayat which can be replicated to all other gram panchayats of similar nature  STUDY AREAS: Panchayats situated at coastal belt  KEYWORDS: DISASTER MANAGEMENT; FLOODS;PANCHAYATI RAJ;MODEL PLAN NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Disaster Management & Rural Reconstruction (CD & RR) (NIRD) TITLE: Role of panchayats in disaster management  PROJECT LEADER: Jena, A C  STARTING DATE: December, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: February, 2003  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the role of PRIs in pre disasters, during disasters and post disasters situations; 2. To examine and evolve mechanism to empower PRIs and local community including the  NGOs to cope up with disasters based on the recent experience of super cyclone in Orissa or earthquake in Gujarat; and 3. To suggest measures in improving capacity building of PRIs in disaster management.  METHODOLOGY: Information would be collected from the disaster affected families through group discussions and in-depth interviews.  STUDY AREAS: Orissa or Gujarat  KEYWORDS: DISASTER MANAGEMENT;CYCLONES;EARTHQUAKES;PANCHAYATI RAJ; PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Micro Planning (CMP) (NIRD)  TITLE: Planning for a village panchayat   PROJECT LEADER: Ramaiah, T.G  STARTING DATE: April, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: August, 2002  OBJECTIVES: To prepare a development plan for a village panchayat for provision of socio-economic facilities with peoples participation.  STUDY AREAS: One gram panchayat in Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;PANCHAYATI RAJ;VILLAGE PLAN;CHITTOOR DISTRICT;ANDHRA PRADESH NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD)  TITLE: Emerging administrative structure of panchayati raj: A study in Uttar Pradesh PROJECT LEADER: Jain, S P STARTING DATE: August, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: November, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the process of devolution in the state of Uttar Pradesh;2. To describe the measures undertaken by the Government of UP in carrying out the administrative restructuring process;3. To analyse the changing pattern of Panchayati Raj administration; and 4. To highlight the positive and negative aspects of the administrative restructuring process.  METHODOLOGY: Data were collected from the concerned officials and elected representatives through discussions and questionnaires.  STUDY AREAS: Uttar Pradesh  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS;PANCHAYATI RAJ ADMINISTRATION;UTTAR PRADESH NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD)  TITLE:  Kutumbhashree programme: A case study in Kerala PROJECT LEADER: Jayalakshmi, K  STARTING DATE: May, 2001 DATE OF COMPLETION: August, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1.To examine the extent of involvement of PRIs and the beneficiaries in the said programme.2. To examine the issues like Role of PRIs in the programme implementation, identification of beneficiaries for the scheme: identification of IGA in the programme, mobilization process and operational problems.  METHODOLOGY: Information was collected from the elected leaders and village elites of the study area through discussion method.  STUDY AREAS: Kerala  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;RURAL DEVELOPMENT;KUTUMBHASHREE PROGRAMME;KERALA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD)  TITLE: Management of panchayati raj (PR) finances in Karnataka PROJECT LEADER: Vittal, C P  STARTING DATE: September, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION:  December, 2001  OBJECTIVES:  1. To study the pattern of Panchayati Raj;2. To ascertain the resource base of the PR in the State;3. To analyse the powers of taxation and the flow of funds; and 4. To identify  factors responsible for poor resource mobilization. METHODOLOGY: Data were collected by administering separate schedules to the members of the gram sabha and officials and non-officials as well. STUDY AREAS: Karnataka  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ FINANCES;RESOURCE MOBILIZATION;KARNATAKA NAME OF THE CENTRE:  Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD)  TITLE: Management of panchayati raj finances in Kerala  PROJECT LEADER: Vithal, C P  STARTING DATE: December, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: February, 2003  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the pattern of panchayati raj 2. To ascertain the resource base and flow of funds to panchayati raj in the state 3. to analyse the income and expenditure of panchayati raj and 4. To identify factors responsible for resource mobilisation  METHODOLOGY: Primary data would be collected from the officials and non-official functionaries of PR  through pre-designed schedule.  Secondary data will be collected from official records at various levels like state, district, block and village.  STUDY AREAS: Kerala  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ FINANCES;RESOURCE MOBILISATION;KERALA NAME OF THE CENTRE:  Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD)  TITLE: Planning and implementation of Jawahar Gram Samridhi Yojana (JGSY) PROJECT LEADER: Jain,  S P  PROJECT TEAM: Srivastava, K B; Jayalakshmi, K;Gangadhar Reddy, G; Sarumathy; Bhaskar Rao, Y; Vittal, C P and Annamalai, V  STARTING DATE: August, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: December, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To assess the role of Gram Panchayat and Gram Sabha in implementation of schemes under JGSY;2. To understand the perception of elected representatives and people at large about the programme and benefits that accrued to the area;3. To examine the pattern of flow of funds and other aspects such as time lag, etc.;4. The role of DRDA and Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti in its implementation;5.  To study administrative impediments affecting the process of implementation; and 6.      To examine policies and strategies and their influence on implementation (JGSY)  METHODOLOGY: Data were collected from the published documents, government orders and discussions and interviews with elected representatives and beneficiaries through case study method.  STUDY AREAS: Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra,Uttar Pradesh and WestBengal KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES; JAWAHAR GRAM SAMRIDHI YOJANA;PANCHAYATI RAJ;HIMACHAL PRADESH; KERALA;MAHARASHTRA;UTTAR PRADESH;WEST BENGAL NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE: Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in eradication of untouchability in Maharashtra state PROJECT LEADER: Bhaskara Rao, Y STARTING DATE: July, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: October, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To assess the impact of implementation of various acts related to removal of untouchability at the panchayat level;2. To study the extent of involvement of PRIs in the eradication of untouchability; and 3. To identify the factors which inhibit the role of PRIs in the eradication of untouchability and implementation of various acts.  METHODOLOGY: Information would be collected through interviews and questionnaires from local informal leaders, NGO groups and  elected representatives of PRIs.  STUDY AREAS: Maharashtra  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS (PRIs); UNTOUCHABILITY;MAHARASHTRA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE: Women’s development projects through panchayati raj institutions: Kerala’s experience PROJECT LEADER: Jayalakshmi, K  STARTING DATE: October, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: December, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To examine the process of identifying projects for  women development  through PRIs.2. To highlight on support services both from financial institutions and other agencies for sustenance of the project and the role of CBOs. vis- a - vis PRIs.  METHODOLOGY: Information would be collected through group discussions with the elected representatives and officials concerned with  the schemes.  STUDY AREAS: Kerala  KEYWORDS: WOMEN;WOMEN DEVELOPMENT;PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;KERALA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Sustainable Economic Development (CSED) (NIRD)  TITLE: Sustainable development through community based resource management : A study of Van Panchayats of Uttaranchal  PROJECT LEADER: Maithani, B P  STARTING DATE: May, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: July, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the evolution structure and functions of Van Panchayats in Uttaranchal 2. To study the rules and regulations governing their functioning 3. To study the actual functioning of few Van Panchayats both in Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttaranchal with special reference to their status, powers and process of decision making, extent of community participation, responsibility and benefit sharing arrangement and 4. To assess its potential as a mechanism for sustainable rural development and scope of its replication in similar other areas. METHODOLOGY: Information would be collected through case study and survey method. STUDY AREAS: Uttaranchal  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;PANCHAYATI RAJ;VAN PANCHAYATS; FORESTRY;UTTARANCHAL NAME OF THE CENTRE: State Finance Cell (SFC) (NIRD)   TITLE: Eleventh Finance Commission (EFC) grant for panchayats: A study in five states PROJECT LEADER: Sivasubrahmanyam, K STARTING DATE: May, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: January, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To examine the rationale of the guidelines prescribed for the states by the Union Ministry of Finance for the utilization of the EFC grant for the Panchayats;2. To assess the distributive criteria adopted by the state for the EFC grant, and the grant released to and utilised by the Panchayats;3. To analyse the nature of works taken up and the extent to which the grant could be utilised by the Panchayats in the States, and to identify the constraints, if any, being experienced by the Panchayats in this regard, and   METHODOLOGY: Primary data were collected from 25 Panchayati Raj institutions through questionnaire.  Secondary data were collected from the Eleventh Finance Commission (EFC) recommendations, guidelines issued by the Union Commissioner of Finance, etc. STUDY AREAS: Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh,Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ;PANCHAYATI RAJ FINANCES;ELEVENTH FINANCE COMMISSION;ANDHRA PRADESH;MADHYA PRADESH; MAHARASHTRA;UTTAR PRADESH; WEST BENGAL NAME OF INSTITUTION: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) MAILING ADDRESS: 42, Tughlakabad Institutional Area, New Delhi--110 062 TELEPHONE NO. 011-6081908, 6089559. FAX: 011-6080183 E-MAIL ADDRESS: infor@pria.org  WEBSITE: www.pria.org TITLE: Finances of Panchayats in Madhya Pradesh (Action Research) PROJECT LEADER(S): Rai, Manoj STARTING DATE: March,2000 DATE OF COMPLETION: July 2000. PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: 1). To analyse the financial management of selected GPs in Madhya Pradesh; 2). To analyse the pattern of expenditure towards social sector; 3)To suggest ways of augmenting the resources and increase finances of GPs;and 4)To suggest nature of training programmes required to build the capacity at GP level.  Methodology: The study draws on both quantitative and qualitative data. Questionnaires, open ended interviews, Interview schedules and Focus Group Discussions were the main methods of data collection. Case studies were conducted to capture particular financial/functional process in its totality. This was followed by district and state level workshops.  Study Area: State: Madhya pradesh; District Panchayats 5; Jampad Panchayats:10; Tram Panchayats: 20.  PRESENT STATUS: Completed.Important findings and conclusions: The total income of PRIs have    increased 2-3 times over the years 1996-99 but mainly due to scheme wise tied grants; Sarpanches are not skilled in financial management and they have to completely depend on Sachivs for financial matters.  PLANNED OUTPUT: Article, Report Thesis  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; FINANCES; MADHYA PRADESH NAME OF INSTITUTION: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) TITLE: Panchayats and education : Dynamics of devolution. (Action Research) PROJECT LEADER(S): Rai, Manoj. PROJECT ASSOCIATE(S): Mathew, Dinoo STARTING DATE: April, 2001. DATE OF COMPLETION: November, 2001. PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: The purpose of the study is to understand the various dynamics involved in the functioning of the Panchayats in the context of devolution of powers, particularly in the education sector.  Methodology: The study draws on both quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection will be done through a structured questionnaire. Qualitative data will be collected through informal interviews.  Study Area: States:16 (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradeshs, Gujarat, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Orissa) PLANNED OUTPUT: Article; Report  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS; EDUCATION; DECENTRALISATION NAME OF INSTITUTION: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) TITLE: Study on the functioning of parallel bodies (Action Research) PROJECT LEADER(S): Rai, Manoj. PROJECT ASSOCIATE(S): Mathew, Dinoo STARTING DATE: February 2001. DATE OF COMPLETION: April 2001. PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: The study seeks to describe and analyse the emergence and subsequent functioning of parallel bodies and how they undermine the role and functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions.  Methodology: The Study draws both on quantitative and qualitative data. Interviews, semi structured dialogues, focus group discussions etc., are used in the study for data collection.  Study Area: States:9 (Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Orissa) PRESENT STATUS: On going  PLANNED OUTPUT: Article; Report Thesis  KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS NAME OF INSTITUTION: Society for Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA) TITLE: The state of panchayats--A participatory perspective. (Action Research) PROJECT LEADER(S): Rai, Manoj. STARTING DATE: March 2000. DATE OF COMPLETION: January 2001. PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: The purpose of the report is to highlight the findings that emerged as a result of the practical experiences of PRIA and partners in working with PRIs, especially with Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabhas.  Methodology: The study draws on both quantitative and qualitative data. Data collection was through a structured questionnaire. Qualitative data was collected through informal interviews.  Study Area: States: 7;  Present Status: Completed.Important findings and conclusions:Most of the State Acts have not spelt out the powers of Gram sabhas, nor have they laid down any procedures for the functioning of these bodies; A provision like the no-confidence motion has often been misused and proved quite handy for influential sections in the village, to remove or thwart the enthusiasm of a representative from the marginalised sections. PLANNED OUTPUT: Article; Book; Report Thesis KEYWORDS: PANCHAYATI RAJ; LOCAL PARTICIPATION. Pachayati raj institutions NAME OF INSTITUTION: Centre forWomen's Development Studies (CWDS) TITLE: Changing political role of tribal women: A study of panchayati raj institutions in Madhya Pradesh PROJECT LEADER(S): Chauhan, Abha. STARTING DATE: 1999 DATE OF COMPLETION: 2000 NAME OF SPONSORER: Indian Council of Social Science Research MAILING ADDRESS: Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067 PROJECT ABSTRACT: Objectives: Aims to study the background , role and performance of hundred elected tribal women representatives in all the three tiers of Panchayati Raj. Methodology: Examining the problems tribal women face in the political processes owing to gender differences and the status of their community. Survey, personal interview and case study method. Study Area: Five districts of fifth Schedules Area of M.P. PLANNED OUTPUT: Report KEYWORDS: WOMEN;TRIBAL WOMEN;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;MADHYA  PRADESH NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Monitoring & Evaluation (CME) (NIRD)  TITLE: Study on the planning & management of the MP/MLA local area development scheme  PROJECT LEADER: Rajakutty, S PROJECT TEAM: Reddy, D P R Chatterjee, S   STARTING DATE: June, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: November, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To review the performance of the scheme: physical & financial progress across the country;2. To study the procedure adopted by MPs/MLAs in the selection and implementation of the projects:document any innovative practices,approaches;3. To ascertain the perception and opinion of cross sections of elected representatives at all levels including the PRIs and people on the scheme; and 4. To suggest policy recommendations.  METHODOLOGY: Information was collected through questionnaire from the leaders of major political parties and various levels of elected representatives STUDY AREAS: Bihar  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;LOCAL AREA DEVELOPMENT SCHEME; PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;BIHAR NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Natural Resources Management (CNRM) (NIRD)  TITLE:  PRIs in watershed management: A study  of kerala model PROJECT LEADER: Rao, S N  STARTING DATE: October, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: December, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the planning, implementation and monitoring arrangements of PRI managed watershed projects; and 2. To assess the level of people’s participation in the process of management of watershed projects. METHODOLOGY: Primary data would be collected through PRA techniques, semi structured interview of various clientele groups and PRI representatives. Secondary data were collected from the project documents, books, magazines and newspaper clippings.  STUDY AREAS:  Kerala  KEYWORDS: IRRIGATION;WATERSHED MANAGEMENT;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS;PEOPLES PARTICIPATION;KERALA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Panchayati Raj (CPR) (NIRD) TITLE:  Management of primary education through PRIs and CBOs – A process study PROJECT LEADER: Reddy, R G  STARTING DATE: October, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: December, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the management of primary education (Pre-Post);2. To study the extent of involvement of PRIs and CBOs in resource mobilization for infrastructure development for primary education;and 3. To study the efforts made by PRIs and CBOs for reduction of school drop outs. METHODOLOGY: Information was collected from the officials concerned through case study method.  STUDY AREAS: Nagpur district of Maharashtra  KEYWORDS:  EDUCATION;PRIMARY EDUCATION;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS; COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATIONS;NAGPUR DISTRICT;MAHARASHTRA NAME OF THE CENTRE: Centre for Quantitative Techniques (CQT) AND Centre for Rural Industries Employment (CRIE) (NIRD)   TITLE: Constraints and utilization of infrastructure for the rural poor – role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs)/Community Based Organisations(CBOs)  PROJECT LEADER: Hanumantha Rao, K  PROJECT TEAM: Gangi Reddy, Y and Murugesan, R  STARTING DATE: May, 2002  DATE OF COMPLETION: October, 2002  OBJECTIVES: 1. To assess the extent to which poor could utilize the social infrastructure available in and around the village; 2. To find out the mode and degree of participation of poor in the maintenance of social infrastructure; 3. To identify the constraints experienced by the poor in accessing the services; 4. To delineate the role played by the PRIs and CBOs in facilitating the poor in availing of the services; and 5. To assess the effect of utilization of infrastructure on the livelihoods of the poor  STUDY AREAS: Maharashtra and Karnataka  KEYWORDS: RURAL DEVELOPMENT;RURAL INFRASTRUCTURE;SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE;POVERTY ALLEVIATION;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS; COMMUNITY BASED ORGANISATIONS;MAHARASHTRA;KARNATAKA NAME OF THE CENTRE: NIRD-North Eastern Regional Centre (NERC), Guwahati  TITLE:  Women’s participation in local institutions of Manipur state  PROJECT LEADER: Devi, T M  STARTING DATE: June, 2001  DATE OF COMPLETION: August, 2001  OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the socio-economic profile of women representatives of the local institutions;2. To study the role of women representatives of local Institutions in decision making and their participation in various activities; and 3. To examine the changing of women representatives of local Institutions in the context of 73rd Constitutional  Amendment Act METHODOLOGY: Information was collected through structured schedule and direct interview with the women representatives of the village level institutions.  STUDY AREAS: Manipur  KEYWORDS: WOMEN;WOMEN PARTICIPATION;PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUIONS; MANIPUR