New Delhi: The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has released the first-ever Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Baseline Report for the financial year 2022–23. The report assesses over 2.16 lakh validated Gram Panchayats across the country, focusing on their progress across nine themes linked to the localisation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These themes include poverty reduction, health, child welfare, water sufficiency, clean and green initiatives, infrastructure development, social security, good governance, and support for women.
The findings show that out of 2,16,285 validated Panchayats, 699 have been recognised as Front Runners, while 77,298 have been identified as Performers. A larger share of Panchayats, 1,32,392, fall in the Aspirant category, showing the need for targeted development in many areas. None of the Panchayats have yet reached the 'Achiever' category. Gujarat leads with 346 Front Runner Panchayats, followed by Telangana with 270. States with a high number of Performer Panchayats include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. Meanwhile, states such as Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh have a significant share of Panchayats in the Aspirant category, indicating areas that require greater focus.
The PAI has been developed using 435 local indicators and 566 unique data points, offering a detailed assessment of rural development. The index helps Panchayats understand their current status, identify areas for improvement, and prepare evidence-based development plans. By aligning with the National Indicator Framework, the index supports local governments in making informed decisions for the betterment of their communities.
The data for the index has been collected and validated with the support of Union Ministries, State Governments, and UN agencies. The dedicated PAI portal (www.pai.gov.in) provides Panchayats with a platform to track their progress and plan their development activities. This initiative aims to strengthen local governance and support policymakers in designing strategies based on ground-level data, helping Panchayats work towards achieving sustainable development goals.
BI Bureau
