Modified structure required for strengthening PRIs: Aiyar

Bhopal, Dec 17 (UNI) Union Panchayati Raj Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar today suggested that the Madhya Pradesh Government prepare a modified structure to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in the state.

''Under the re-constituted structure, a provision for implementing activity mapping of PRIs and rights and funds transfer on priority basis should be made. Flexible policies must be formulated for this purpose at district, block and village levels,'' Mr Aiyar told reporters here.

He said new policies had been made to strengthen the PRIs in Punjab and Sikkim.

Noting that the PRIs had been strengthened since the amendment in the Constitution in 1994, Mr Aiyar said scope existed for improvement and the state government should take steps in this regard.

He praised the revolutionary steps taken during the previous Congress Government to improve the PRIs.

The Union Minister pointed out that 'gram sabhas' could be made more effective by increasing public participation.

The Union Panchayat Ministry had made a provision of Rs 30 crore for strengthening PRIs and the statewise allocation of the amount would begin next month.

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