11 Dec : The Ministry of Rural Development has developed a comprehensive system of Monitoring the implementation and impact of the programmes including utilization of funds through Periodical Progress Reports, field visits by Hon’ble Ministers, Performance of Review Committee, Area Officer’s Scheme, Vigilance and Monitoring Committee at the State/District Level with greater involvement of Members of Parliament, National Level Monitors who monitor the quality of work and adherence to implementation of schemes as per programme guidelines. Such methods are also helpful to monitor the role of Panchayat Bodies in the implementation of Rural Development programmes.In order to strengthen and improve the implementation of the rural development programmes, the Ministry of Rural Development has also been advised to adopt a five pronged strategy consisting of (i) creation of awareness about the Rural Development schemes, (ii) transparency and (iii) People’s Partnership, (iv) accountability, social audit through Gram Sabha and (v) Strict Vigilance and Monitoring.
The guidelines of the Rural Development Schemes have in built mechanism for training and awareness to the PRI functionaries and officials implementing the schemes. For this purpose, financial assistance is also provided to the National Institute of Rural Development(NIRD), State Institute of Rural Development(SIRD) and Extension Training Centre(ETC), Non Governmental Organizations(NGOs) etc. by the Ministry of Rural Development and Ministry of Panchayati Raj. The Information, Education and Communication (IEC) Division of the Ministry of Rural Development, Media and Publicity Division of Ministry of Panchayati Raj also plan and execute IEC activities to create awareness through print and electronic Media.
This information was given by Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, Minister of Panchayati Raj and DoNER in the Lok Sabha in a written reply to a question by Shri Sanjay Dhotre.