New Leaders Sworn in for 577 Gram Panchayats in Mandi District

In a significant ceremony, Anirudh Singh, the Rural Development Minister of Himachal Pradesh, administered the oath to newly elected leaders of 577 Gram Panchayats in Mandi district. He emphasized the importance of transparent governance and the role of Panchayats in rural development. With a financial boost of ₹3,744 crore allocated for developmental activities, Singh urged representatives to prioritize essential community needs. The event also highlighted the government's commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and promoting digital initiatives. As the first formal meeting approaches, leaders are encouraged to propose innovative development strategies. This event marks a pivotal moment for grassroots democracy in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 17:20 IST

Swearing-In Ceremony for Elected Representatives

Munish Sood
Mandi

On Monday, Anirudh Singh, the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj in Himachal Pradesh, officiated the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected Pradhans and Up-Pradhans of 577 Gram Panchayats in Mandi district. The event took place at Paddal Ground, marking a significant moment for local governance.

Encouraging Transparent Governance

During his address, Singh congratulated the newly elected officials and emphasized the importance of transparent governance. He urged them to dedicate themselves to the socio-economic advancement of their respective panchayats.

Panchayats as the Foundation of Democracy

Singh highlighted that Gram Panchayats are essential to India's democratic framework and are crucial for rural development. He acknowledged former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's role in fortifying the three-tier Panchayati Raj system, which was significantly enhanced by the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, granting constitutional recognition to these institutions.

This reform has fostered increased involvement of educated youth in local governance and public service.

Financial Support for Development

The minister revealed that Panchayati Raj Institutions in Himachal Pradesh will receive around ₹3,744 crore from the 16th Finance Commission for developmental initiatives between 2026-27 and 2030-31. Approximately ₹481 crore is set to be allocated in the current financial year.

Mandi district is projected to receive nearly ₹429.11 crore over the next five years, with ₹68.89 crore earmarked for this year.

Half of this funding will be designated for specific projects, such as drinking water supply and sanitation, while the other half will be flexible grants for local development priorities identified by the panchayats.

Investment in Panchayat Infrastructure

Singh also noted that the state government has invested nearly ₹113 crore in the construction and renovation of Panchayat Ghars over the past three years. The financial support for building these facilities has increased from ₹33 lakh to ₹1.14 crore, with a focus on creating modern and functional spaces for local governance.

He encouraged Panchayat representatives to allocate at least 10 biswa of land for the construction of Panchayat Ghars and to facilitate forest clearances by ensuring the availability of at least one bigha of land for development needs.

Promoting Digital Initiatives and Training

The minister stated that the state government is committed to advancing the digitization of Panchayats and enhancing online service delivery. Newly elected representatives have been provided with educational materials regarding their roles and responsibilities.

Structured training programs are being organized for these representatives, with mandatory participation emphasized. An integrated digital training system is also being developed to bolster local governance capabilities.

Incentives for Unopposed Elections

Singh announced reforms in the Panchayati Raj Act, including an increase in the incentive for Panchayats elected unopposed from ₹10 lakh to ₹25 lakh. This year, 137 Panchayats were elected unanimously, showcasing a growing consensus within communities.

Call for Innovative Development Proposals

He urged Panchayat leaders to develop innovative proposals for community development, with the first formal meeting of Gram Panchayats scheduled for June 27. Singh encouraged representatives to focus on critical areas such as drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, self-employment, environmental conservation, and anti-drug initiatives in their agendas.

Additionally, he announced that Panchayat representatives who excel in their roles would be selected for exposure visits to learn about best governance practices.

Event Highlights and Dignitaries Present

During the ceremony, Chander Shekhar honored the Panchayati Raj Minister, who also recognized Alisha, a talented student who participated in a unique initiative serving as Deputy Commissioner for a day.

Attendees included MLA and former minister Anil Sharma, MLA Purn Chand Thakur, former CPS Sohan Lal Thakur, Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar, senior district officials, elected representatives, and notable community members.