Silvester D'Souza

Dajiworld Media Network - Kundapur

Kundapur, Jan 6: Gram panchayats should function as autonomous units, operating as independent governments. Efforts are underway to strengthen panchayats in the decentralization system by creating supportive requirements. The work modeled on the federal system is also significant. The achievements of Vandse gram panchayat are commendable, said Dr C Narayana Swamy, president of the 5th State Finance Commission.

He was speaking during a meeting held at the panchayat office during his visit to Vandse gram panchayat in Kundapura taluk.

Dr Swamy stated that timely elections for administrative bodies ensure the proper disbursement of funds. In Karnataka, the lack of district and taluk panchayat elections has led to the withholding of funds. If elections are conducted in the 2025-26 fiscal year, funds will be released; otherwise, they will lapse. He added that the 5th Finance Commission is traveling across the state, gathering information, and holding discussions to submit its report to the government. The commission works to strengthen resources, funding, and administrative bodies.

On this occasion, commission members Mohammad Sanaulla and RS Ponde; advisors to the 5th State Finance Commission MK Kempegowda and CG Suprasanna; personal secretary to the commission president K Yalakki Gowda; Wahab; CPO Uday Shetty; and taluk panchayat executive officer Dr Ravikumar Hukkeri were present.

Panchayat Raj expert S Janardhan Maravan highlighted the challenges faced by panchayats, the need for strengthening, and the role of the Finance Commission.

Taluk panchayat manager Ramachandra Maiya, Vandse gram panchayat president Geetha Avinash, vice president Govardan Jogi, Chittur gram panchayat president Ravindra Shetty, Iduru Kunjnadi gram panchayat president Asha Acharya, Keradi gram panchayat president Sudarshan Shetty, Aluru gram panchayat president Rajesh Devadiga, Hakladi gram panchayat president Prema, and Namma Bhoomi institution's Srinivas Ganiga, along with Vandse gram panchayat members. Shashikala S, Prashanth Poojary, Subbu, Sushila, staff members, and development officers of other gram panchayats, attended the meeting.

Chittur gram panchayat president Ravindra Shetty pointed out that vacancies in key positions are hindering development and emphasized the need to draw the government's attention to filling these posts.

Aluru gram panchayat president Rajesh Devadiga addressed issues with the e-Swathu system and the challenges faced by gram panchayats.

Former president and current member of Vandse gram panchayat Uday Kumar Shetty welcomed the gathering. Vandse gram panchayat development officer Poornima Shet presented a PowerPoint detailing the panchayat's achievements. Uday Kumar Shetty explained the establishment and progress of SLRM, the growth of the current multi-village SLRM unit, monthly profits, and future plans. He also elaborated on a new initiative to produce highly nutrient-rich compost through silkworm larvae and a soon-to-be-launched palliative care project.

Vandse gram panchayat vice president Govardan Jogi proposed the vote of thanks.