The Ministry of Panchayati Raj is spearheading the localization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to fulfill the Agenda of Sustainable Development by 2030, encompassing 9 key themes. In an effort to gauge the progress made by grassroots-level institutions in attaining Localized SDGs and, consequently, achieving SDG 2030, the Ministry has introduced the Panchayat Development Index (PDI) report. PDI is expected to play a crucial role in evaluating performance and assessing progress toward Localized SDGs in rural areas.
As part of the revamped Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA), the Ministry is encouraging top-performing Panchayats through the National Panchayats Award (NPA). This award recognizes Panchayats that excel in SDG achievement, fostering healthy competition among them. The thematic scores derived from the preparation of PDI, covering nine themes of Localized SDGs, along with the composite PDI score of Gram Panchayats, will be instrumental in evaluating their developmental progress. The PDI aims to promote competition among Panchayats, motivating them to plan and work toward developmental goals and enhancing visibility by improving their standing relative to their peers.
The PDI Report outlines the computation of the Panchayat Development Index, utilizing local indicators across nine themes, along with data sources and monitoring mechanisms. PDI will be calculated based on 577 local indicators, 144 local targets, and 642 unique data points to monitor progress toward Localized SDGs.
To disseminate knowledge about PDI, the Ministry has undertaken various knowledge-sharing approaches with stakeholders and partners. This includes state-level workshops and meetings, the development of audio-visual films, learning modules, and other initiatives to enhance understanding of the significance and institutionalization strategies related to PDI.
Furthermore, PDI is expected to encourage Panchayats to develop exemplary practices in innovative models related to LSDGs through a convergent mechanism. Successful practices are shared among Panchayats, both within and outside states, through deliberate processes, resulting in effective grassroots-level practices through shared experiences and expertise. External visits of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) within and outside states, along with the establishment of Panchayat Learning Centres, contribute to knowledge-sharing efforts.
The Ministry is actively working on institutionalizing PDI through various strategies and mechanisms. States are informed about the strategies adopted by the Ministry and are prepared to utilize PDI for outcome-oriented development goals at the Panchayat level. The outcomes of PDI will measure incremental progress through scores achieved by Panchayats, aiding in setting local targets and actionable points for evidence-based Panchayat Development Plans to achieve desired goals and improve performance.
The Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Shri Kapil Moreshwar Patil, provided this information in a written reply in Lok Sabha today.