Development Standing Committee
The Panchayat Development Standing Committee is a vital sub-committee within the Local Self-Government Institutions (Grama Panchayat, Block Panchayat, and District Panchayat) in Kerala. This committee is responsible for the planning and supervision of all matters related to development.
1. Composition
| Role | Details |
|---|---|
| Chairman | One of the elected members of the Panchayat is elected as the Chairman of this Committee. (The Panchayat Vice President is usually the Chairman of the Finance Standing Committee; the Development Standing Committee's Chairman will be another member). |
| Members | Other elected members of the Panchayat will serve as members of this committee. A member can only be part of one Standing Committee at a time. |
| Secretary | The Panchayat Secretary acts as the ex-officio Secretary, participating in the committee meetings, recording the decisions, and being responsible for their implementation. |
2. Main Duties and Powers
The subjects handled by the Development Standing Committee are primarily related to the progress and infrastructural facilities of the Panchayat:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Planning | Preparing the Panchayat's Annual Plans and comprehensive development schemes, and submitting them to the Panchayat Governing Council for approval. |
| Agriculture, Animal Husbandry | Supervising projects related to agricultural development programs, dairy development, animal husbandry, and social forestry. |
| Public Works | Leading the design, approval of estimates, construction, and maintenance of Panchayat roads, bridges, buildings, and other public works. |
| Small-Scale Industry | Promoting small-scale industries, handicrafts, and rural employment schemes. |
| Irrigation, Water Supply | Supervising minor irrigation projects, conservation of ponds and other water sources, and schemes for drinking water supply. |
| Housing | Implementing schemes for the homeless (e.g., like the LIFE Mission) and reviewing their progress. |
| Coordination | Working in coordination with various government departments and agencies for the effective implementation of development projects. |
The Development Standing Committee can be described as the backbone of a Panchayat's development. It plays a significant role in identifying local resources and ensuring public participation.