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PAPER ID:IJIM/V.I(IV)/52-64/9
AUTHOR:Mr. Nikhil Gopal Agarwal
TITLE : COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS: A CASE STUDY
ABSTRACT: Panchayati Raj Institution is the Indian Avatar of grass root democracy which was implemented envisioning not only rural development, but also social justice and empowerment which are integral constituents of development. However, it exists in a context – the context of traditional as well as changing rural India marked by socio-economic-cultural diversity. In tandem with the context, PRI are also dynamic and are impacted by the social hierarchies and inequalities that exist in the society deterring the marginalized to come and participate in PRI. The study seeks to understand the context and dynamics of community participation in the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions and to suggest suitable interventions for enhancing community participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions. The study notes that participation requires a cultural context in which such participation is supported and mechanisms for its survival are ensured, but, such mechanisms are found missing and current institutional formats/structures/procedures seem to be hijacked by existing social order. The study found sub-group specific participation practices which seem to be revolving under four major areas which are Awareness Concerns, Indifference, Restrictions and Constraints in participation and Rural Elite Capture.
KEYWORDS: Panchayati Raj, Community Participation, Grass Root Democracy, Social Dynamics