Gramasabha/ Ward sabha
GRAM SABHA / WARD SABHA
People’s Participation for Local Development
The Gram Sabha consists of all persons whose names are included in the electoral roll relating to a village situated within the territorial area of a Gram Panchayat. Similarly, all voters whose names are included in the electoral roll of a particular ward are members of the Ward Sabha of that ward. The Gram Sabha and Ward Sabha serve as important platforms for ensuring the direct participation of citizens in planning, implementing and reviewing local development activities.
📌 CONVENER
The Ward Member of a Gram Panchayat functions as the Convener of the Gram Sabha, while the Ward Councillor of a Municipality functions as the Convener of the Ward Sabha. Where necessary, another Ward Member may also be appointed as the Convener.
🎙️ CHAIRPERSON
The President of the Gram Panchayat presides over the Gram Sabha, while the Municipal Chairperson presides over the Ward Sabha. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice President, Deputy Chairperson or Convener, as applicable, shall discharge the responsibilities of the Chairperson.
📅 CONVENING OF MEETINGS
The primary responsibility for convening the meetings of the Gram Sabha and Ward Sabha at the appropriate time rests with the Convener, who is also the Ward Member. These meetings provide an opportunity for citizens to directly raise the development needs, concerns and issues of their locality.
✅ QUORUM
The quorum for a Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha meeting is 10% of the total number of voters. If a meeting is adjourned due to lack of quorum, the quorum for the reconvened meeting shall be 50 members.
📝 SPECIAL MEETING
If 10% of the total voters of a ward submit a written request, a special meeting of the Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha shall be convened within 15 days. This provides an opportunity for citizens to discuss matters of urgent or special importance relating to their locality.
🤝 COORDINATOR
An officer designated by the Gram Panchayat/Municipality shall function as the Coordinator and provide the necessary assistance to the Convener in conducting the activities and meetings of the Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha.
❓ QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS
Members may submit their questions and suggestions in writing either before the meeting or during the meeting. Their views and suggestions regarding local development, public facilities, welfare schemes and public services may be recorded and appropriate follow-up action may be taken.
📜 RESOLUTIONS
The Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha may discuss matters falling within its area of authority and responsibility and may pass resolutions on such matters based on the majority decision. This provides an important mechanism for formally recording the views and decisions of the people.
⚙️ MAJOR POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE GRAM SABHA / WARD SABHA
🏗️ PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
The Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha plays an important role in identifying the development needs of the locality. It may collect necessary information, formulate proposals for development projects and determine their priorities. Citizens may also contribute through voluntary service and financial assistance for the successful implementation of development projects.
💧 DEVELOPMENT OF PUBLIC FACILITIES
The Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha may identify and recommend suitable locations for street lights, public water supply taps, wells and other essential public facilities based on the needs of the local community. It may also provide recommendations for projects relating to sanitation, drinking water supply and irrigation.
🛠️ PUBLIC WORKS AND MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES
Citizens may obtain information regarding development and public works being undertaken in their locality, including estimate details, work specifications and implementation progress. The Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha may also assist and monitor beneficiary committees and participate in monitoring the progress and quality of works being implemented in the locality.
🌱 PEOPLE’S PARTICIPATION IS THE STRENGTH
The Gram Sabha and Ward Sabha are fundamental democratic platforms through which the views, needs and concerns of citizens can be directly brought to the attention of the local administration. Active participation by every member helps in formulating more effective development plans, improving public services and ensuring greater transparency and accountability in local governance.
“OUR VILLAGE – OUR PARTICIPATION – OUR DEVELOPMENT”