Koothali
Grama Panchayat

According to the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994, the Grama Sabha is the basic unit of Grama Panchayat administration. The Grama Sabha, a general body consisting of all voters of the village, directly evaluates and approves the Panchayat's plans, expenditures, welfare activities, and other matters.

According to the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, the Grama Sabha is the most important democratic forum at the Grama Panchayat level. All voters of the Panchayat are members of the Grama Sabha. It provides a platform for directly discussing and taking decisions on development projects, welfare measures, complaints, social issues, and other matters of public interest.

🌿 Key Features of the Grama Sabha

• Democratic Forum: Since all voters of the Panchayat are members, people have the opportunity to express their opinions directly and participate in decision-making.
• Development Projects: The Panchayat's annual plans, budget, and welfare measures are presented before the Grama Sabha for discussion and approval.
• Grievance Redressal: A platform for people to directly present their problems, complaints, and requirements.
• Social Monitoring: People monitor and evaluate the functioning of the Panchayat administration.
• Legal Status: The Grama Sabha has legal powers and responsibilities under the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994.

📌 Functions of the Grama Sabha

• Plan Formulation: The Panchayat's annual development plans are discussed and approved by the Grama Sabha.
• Social Welfare: Welfare schemes such as pensions, housing, drinking water, sanitation, and other welfare programmes are discussed and decided upon in the Grama Sabha.
• Public Participation: Since people participate directly, transparency and accountability in governance are ensured.
• Development Monitoring: The progress of implemented projects is reviewed and evaluated.

📊 Importance of the Grama Sabha