Unit 3: Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration PDF

1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad ********1st DRAFT*********** UNIT-3 : Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration CONTENTS Part-1 : Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration Administrative Structure Bureaucracy, Structure of Administration...

1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad ********1st DRAFT*********** UNIT-3 : Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration CONTENTS Part-1 : Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration Administrative Structure Bureaucracy, Structure of Administration Part-2 : Panchayati Raj Institutions Emergence and Growth of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India Part-3 : People and Panchayati Raj Part-4 : Financial Organizations in Panchayati Raj Institutions Part-5 : Structure of Rural Finance. Part-6 : Government and Non- Government Organizations/ Community Based Organizations Part-7 : Concept of Self Help. Groups 18HGs) PART-1 Panchayati Raj and Rural Administration: Administrative Structure: Bureaucracy, Structure of Administration. Questions-Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.1. Explain the structure of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India. Answer https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 1/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1 Panchayati Raj (Council of five officials) is the system of local self- government of villages in rural India. 2. It consists of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) through which the self-governinent of villages is realized. 3. PRIs are tasked with economic development, strengthening social justice and implementation of Central and State Government Schemes. 4. Part IX of the Indian Constitution is the section of the Constitution relating to the Panchayats. 5. It stipulates that in states or Union Territories with more than two million inhabitants there are three levels of PRIs: i. The Gram Panchayats at village level: A Gram, meaning a village or a cluster of villages, is divided into a minimum of five constituencies depending on the number of voters the Gram is having. From each of these constituencies one member is elected. Body of these elected members is called the Gram Panchayat. ii. The Panchayat Samiti at block level: Panchayat samiti is a rural local government (panchayat) body at the intermediate tehsil (taluka/mandal) levélin India. iii. The Zila Parishad at district level: The Zila Panchayat or District Council or Mandal Parishad or District Panchayat is the third tier of the Panchayati Raj system and functions at the district levels in all states. A Zila Parishad is an elected body. Que 3.2. Mention specific objectives and philosophy of Panchayat Raj. Answer Specific objectives: 1. Assistance to the economically weaker sections of the community. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 2/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 2. Cobesion and cooperative self help in the community. 3 Development of cooperative institutions. 4 Development of local resources including the utilization of manpower. Fi Production in agriculture as the highest priority in planning Progressive dispersal of authority and initiative both vertically and horizontally with special emphasis on the role of voluntary organizations. Promotion of rural industries. Understanding and harmony between the people’s representatives and people servants through comprehensive training/education and a clear demarcation of duties and responsibilities. Philosophy of Panchayat Raj 1 The philosophy of l’anchayat Raj is deeply steeped in tradition and culture of rural India and is by no means a new concept. Panchayatı Kay Provided a system of self-governance at the village level. Panchayatı Ray Institutions is the grass-roots units of self-government – have been declared as the vehicles of socio-economic transformation in rural India 1 Effective and meaningful functioning of these bodies would depend on active involvement, contribution and participation of its citizens both male and female. The aim of every village being a republic and panchayats having powers has been translated inte reality with https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 3/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad the introduction of the three-tier Panchayati Raj system to enlist people’s participation in rural reconstruction Que 3.3. What do you mean by Gram Panchayats? Explain the major functions of Gram Panchayats. Answer 1. A Gram, meaning a village or a cluster of villages, is divided into a minimum of five constituencies depending on the number of voters the Gram is having 3. From each of these constituencies one member is elected. 4. Body of these elected members is called the Gram Panchayat. 5. Size of the Gram Panchayata varies widely from state to state. 6. It is a democratic structure at the grass-roots level in India. 6. It is a political institute, acting as cabinet of the village. 7. The Gram Sabha work as the general body of the Gram Panchayat 8. The members of the Gram Panchayat are elected by the Gram Sabha. Functions of Gram Panchayats: https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 4/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. Preparation of Annual Plans for the development of the village Panchayat area. 2. Preparation Annual Budget of Village Panchayat. 3. Mobilization of relief in natural calamities. 4. Removal of encroachments on public properties. 5. Organizing voluntary labours and contribution for community works. 6. Maintenance of essential statistics of villages. 7. Service or developmental function, such as promotion of education, health, agriculture, etc. 8. Representative function, where the main role is to voice and represent the opinion. 9. Regulatory and administrative functions, which consists of regulating the conduct of individuals and institutions and also collection of taxes. Que 3.4. What do you mean by Panchayat Samiti? Explain the major functions of Panchayat Samiti. Answer 1. Panchayat samiti is a rural local government (panchayat) body at the intermediate tehsil (taluka/mandal) level in India. 2. It works for the villages of the tehsil that together are called a development block https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 5/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 3. It has been said to be the "panchayat of panchayats". 4. Typically, panchayat samiti is composed of elected members of the area: the block development officer, members of the state's legislative assembly, members of parliament belonging to that area, otherwise unrepresented groups (Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and women), associate members and the elected members of that panchayat block on the zila parishad. 5. The samiti is elected for five years and is headed by a chairman and deputy chairman elected by the members of the panchayat samiti. 6. One sarpanch samiti supervises the other gram panchayats. It acts as a co-ordinating body between district panchayat and gram panchayat. Functions of Panchayat Samiti: 1. The main functions of the Panchayat Samitis are planning, execution and supervision of all developmental programmes in the Block. 2. It also supervises the works of Gram Panchayats within its Jurisdiction. 3. It has to instill among people within its jurisdiction a spirit of self-help and initiative and work for raising the standard of living. 4. It has to support for the implementation of development programmes. 5. It has the welfare and development activities in the fields of agriculture, animal husbandry, health, sanitation, elementary education, cottage industries and social. 6. It has to use the village housing project funds and loans. Que 3.5. What do you mean by Zila Parishad? Explain the major functions of Zila Parishad. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 6/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Answer 1. The Zila Panchayat or District Council or Mandal Parishad or District Panchayat is the third tier of the Panchayati Raj system and functions at the district levels in all states. 2. A Zila Parishad is an elected body. 3. Block Pramukh of Block Panchayat are also represented in Zila Parishad. 4. The members of the State Legislature and the members of the Parliament of India are members of the Zila Parishad. 5. The Zila parishad is the top most tier of the panchayat raj system and acts as the link between the state government and the village-level Gram Panchayat. 6. Zila Parishad are Panchayats at Apex or District Level in Panchayat Raj Institutions. 7. The Chairman of all the Panchayat Samitis under the district are the ex officio members of Zila Parishad. 8. The deputy chief executive officer from General Administration department at district level is ex-officio secretary of Zila Parishad. 9 The chief executive officer, who is an IAS officer or senior state service officer, heads the administrative setup of the Zila Parishad. Functions of Zila Parishad: https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 7/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. It works as advisory body for blocks. 2. It approves budget and plan of blocks. 3. It allots funds to the blocks. 4. It approves budget and plan of blocks. 5. Secondary education is the responsibility of this council. 6. It should advise Government in all matters relating to rural development in the district. 7. It has to review the results achieved under various items in all the blocks. PART-2 Panchayati Raj Institutions Emergence and Growth of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India. Questions-Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.6. Write a short note on Emergence and Growth of Panchayati Raj Institution in India. Answer 1. Panchayati Raj was not a new concept to India. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 8/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 2. Indian villages had Panchayats, which were having both executive and judicial powers and used to handle various issues or disputes arising in the village area. 3. Gandhiji also held the opinion of empowerment of Panchayats for the development of rural areas. 4. Thus, recognizing their importance our Constitution makers included a provision for Panchayats in part IV of constitution. 5. Article 40 confers the responsibility upon State to take steps to organise Village Panchayats and endow them with powers and authority to enable them to function as units of self-government. But it does not give guidelines for organising village panchayats. 6. Panchayati Raj formal organisation and structure was firstly recommended by Balwant Rai committee. 7. The Committee, in its report in November 1957, recommended the establishment of the scheme of 'democratic decentralisation', which ultimately came to be known as Panchayati Raj. 8. It recommended for a three tier system at village, block and district level and it also recommended for direct election of village level panchayat. 9. Rajasthan was the first state to establish Panchayati Raj at Nagaur district on October 2, 1959. 10. After this, Ashok Mehta Committee on Panchayati Raj was appointed in December 1977.11. In August 1978 submitted its report with various recommendations to revive and strengthen the declining Panchayati Raj system in the country. 11. In August 1978 submitted its report with various recommendations to revive and strengthen the declining Panchayati Raj system in the country. 12. Its major recommendation were two tier system of panchayat, regular social audit, representation of political parties at all level of panchayat elections, provisions for regular election, reservation to SCs/STs in panchayats and a minister for panchayati raj in state council of ministers, 13. Further, GVK Rao Committee appointed in 1985 again recommended some measures to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions. 14. LM Singhvi Committee appointed in 1986 first time recommended for the constitutional status of Panchayati Raj institutions. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 9/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 15. In response to the recommendations of LM Singhvi committee, a bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha by Rajiv Gandhi's government in July 1989 to constitutionalize Panchayati Raj Institutions, but the bill was not passed in Rajya Sabha. 16. After this PV Narashima Rao's government introduced a bill for this purpose in Lok Sabha in September, 1991 and the bill finally emerged as the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 and came into force on 24th April, 1993. Que 3.7. Answer Write a short note on: Balwantrai Mehta Committee. ←→ 1. Balwantrai Mehta Committee was the first Committee set up in 1957 to look into the problems of democratic decentralization in independent India. 2. The Comittee was asked to report on community development projects. 3. The Committee made far reaching recommendations in the direction of democratic decentralization and rural reconstruction. 4 It pointed out that the community development programme was not successful because it failed to evoke local initiative and that in the absence of local initiative and interest development would not be possible. 5. The committee laid down following five fundamental principles: i There should be three tier structures of local self government bodies from village to the district level and these bodies should be linked together https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 10/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad There should be genuine transfer of power and responsibility to these bodies to enable them to discharge their responsibility. iii. Adequate resources should be transferred to these bodies to enable them to discharge their responsibilities. iv. All welfare and developmental schemes and programmes at all three levels should be channelled through these bodies, and V The three tier system should facilitate further devolution and disposal of power and responsibility in future. 7. The committee envisaged three tire system of Panchayats known as Zilla Parishad, Panchayat Samiti and Gram Panchayat and recommended encouragement of peoples’ participation in community work, promotion of agriculture and animal husbandry, promoting the welfare of the weaker sections and women through the Panchayats. 8. For the first, time the Committee made recommendations for co-opting of two women who are interested to work for women and children. 9. However, like the rest of the male members, women were not to be elected but were to be co-opted. 10. The recommendations of the Balwantrai Mehta Committee came into effect on 1 April 1958. 11. Rajasthan was the first state to implement it on 2nd October 1959. Que 3.8. Write a short note on: Ashok Mehta Committee. Answer https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 11/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. In December 1977, the Janata Government appointed a committee on panchayati raj institutions under the chairmanship of Ashok Mehta. 2. It submitted its report in August 1978 and made 132 recommendations to revive and strengthen the declining panchayati raj system in the country. 3. Its main recommendations were: I The three-tier system of panchayati raj should be replaced by the two-tier system, that is, zila parishad at the district level, and below it, the mandal panchayat consisting of a group of villages with a total population of 15,000 to 20,000. ii. A district should be the first point for decentralization under popular supervision below the state level. iv. Zila parishad should be the executive body and made responsible for planning at the district level. v. There should be an official participation of political parties at all levels of panchayat elections. The panchayati raj institutions should have compulsory powers of taxation to mobilise their own financial resources. 4. Due to the collapse of the Janata Government before the completion of its term, no action could be taken on the recommendations of the Ashok Mehta Committee. Que 3.9. Write a short note on: GVK Rao Committee. Answer 1 The Committee to review the existing Administrative Arrangements for Rural Development and Poverty https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 12/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Alleviation Programmes under the chairmanship of G. V.K. Rao was appointed by the Planning Commission in 1985 2 The Committee came to conclusion that the developmental process was gradually bureaucratised and divorced from the Panchayati Raj. 3. This phenomena of bureaucratisation of development administration as against the democratisation weakened the Panchayati Raj institutions. 5. Hence, the Committee made the following recommendations to strengthen and revitalise the Panchayati Raj system The district level body, that is, the Zila Parishad should be of pivotal importance in the scheme of democratic decentralisation. The Panchayati Raj institutions at the district and lower levels should be assigned an important role with respect to planning. Implementation and monitoring of rural development programmes. Some of the planning functions at the state level should be transferred to the district level planning units for effective decentralized district planning. iv. A post of District Development Commissioner should be created. He should act as the chief executive officer of the Zila Parishad and should be in charge of all the development departments at the district level. Elections to the Panchayati Raj institutions should be held regularly. 6. Thus the committee, in its scheme of decentralised system of field administration, assigned a leading role to the Panchayati Raj in local planning and development. Que 3.10. Write a short note on: L.M. Singhvi Committee. Answer https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 13/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. LM. Singhvi Committee is one of the committees related to Panchyati Rajin India. 2 LM. Singhvi Committee is a committee on revitalisation of Panchayati Raj Institutions for democracy and development. 2. In 1986, Rajiv Gandhi government appointed the committee under the chairmanship of L.M. Singhvi. 3. It made the following recommendations: i. The Panchayati Raj Institutions should be constitutionally. Recognised, protected and preserved. ii. It also suggested constitutional provisions to ensure regular, free and fair elections to the Panchayati Raj bodies. iii. Nyaya Panchayats should be established for a cluster of villages. iv. The villages should be reorganised to make Gram Panchayats more viable. It also emphasised the importance of the Gram Sabha and called it as the embodiment of direct democracy. V. The Village Panchayats should have more financial resources. v. The judicial tribunals should be established in each state to adjudicate controversies about election to the Panchayati Raj institutions, their dissolution and other matters related to their functioning. Que 3.11. What are the various features of 73rd Amendment Act, 1992? OR https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 14/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Write a short note on: 73rd Amendment Act, 1992. Answer 1. The 73rd Amendment to the Constitution enacted in 1992 added a new part-IX to the Constitution. 2. It also added a new XI schedule containing list of 29 functional items for Panchyats and made statutory provisions for the establishment, empowerment and functioning of Panchayati Raj institutions. 4. Some provisions of this amendment are binding on the States, while others have been left to be decided by respective State Legislatures at their discretion. 5. The salient features of this amendment are as follows: I Organization of Gram Sabhas, Creation of a three-tier Panchayatı Raj Structure at the District (Zila), Block and Village levels, iii. Almost all posts, at all levels to be filled by direct elections; IV. Minimum age for contesting elections to the Panchayati Raj institutions be twenty one years, Y The post of Chairman at the District and Block levels should be filled by indirect election; vi. There should be reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes in Panchayats, in proportion to their population, and for women in Panchayats up to one-third seats; https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 15/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad vii. State Election Commission to be set up in each State to conduct elections to Panchayati Raj institutions; viii. The tenure of Panchayati Raj institutions is five years, if dissolved earlier, fresh elections to be held within six months; and ix. A State Finance Commission is to be set up in each State every five years. Following are some of the provisions, which are not binding on the States, but are only guidelines: 1. Giving representation to the members of the Central and State legislatures in these bodies, Providing reservation for backward classes; and Iin. The Panchayati Raj institutions should be given financial powers in relation to taxes, levy fees etc., and efforts shall be made to make Panchayats autonomous bodies. Que 3.12. Mention various issues that Panchayati Raj Institutions are facing. Answer Following are various issues that Panchayati Raj Institutions are facing: 1. In India the panchayats has minimal powers to generate revenue. They do not have the powers to levy taxes and therefore they are hugely dependent on the State Government for funding. Therefore it is just a functional autonomy. 2 The State Finance Commission is meant to ensure an effective mechanism for the panchayati raj institutions. However, the recommendations of the State Finance Commission are not accepted. 2. No state or UT. Have transferred all 29 functions or subjects to the PRI This clearly shows that in India the panchayats are merely an extension of the State and are not like a separate administrative unit. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 16/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 3. Institutional structures like the district planning boards, created to expedite decentralised planning, are either non-functional or do not give priority to PRIS 4. Limited efforts have been made to empower elected PRI representatives with their constitutional functions, the focus has mostly been on trainings on the schemes and programmes. 5. Even after the legislative of keeping the panchayats clean from politics, there still exists influence of the bureaucracy and the political parties. PART-3 People and Panchayati Raj. Questions Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.13. How to ensure people’s participation in Panchayati Raj? Answer 1. To evoke local interest and excite local initiative in the field of development people’s participation in panchayat is necessary. 2. By enhancing people’s participation PRIs can be strengthened. 3. Following circumstances helps in strengthening people’s participation in PRIS: A. Strengthening the Gram Sabha: https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 17/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. The Gram Sabha is the only forum which provides opportunities to all the adult villagers to directly participate and suggest what can and need to be done for their own village and how. 2 In all other forums, people are substituted by “leaders” elected or otherwise. 2. Only a strong Gram Sabha can ensure “the acquisition of the capacity in the many to regulate authority”. 3. If not made accountable to the community, Gram Panchayats have a tendency to become Sarpanch Panchayats. 4. Gram Sabha serves to keep Gram Panchayat accountable. B. Developing strong leadership of women and Dalits: 1. Reservation of seats in Panchayats for women and Dalits has given them an opportunity to participate in development process. 2. However most of them are illiterate and have to comply with social taboos and patriarchal values. So, it is not easy for them to actively participate in development process. 3. To overcome this special programmes of awareness generation, attitudinal changes and skill development should be conducted for women and Dalits. 4. They should be made an integral part (from beginning to end) of any process. 5. The lack of adequate information about their roles and responsibilities inhibits women Panchayat leaders to function effectively. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 18/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 6. Better information dissemination and support and encouragement from community and NGOs are effective means of building up women and SC/ST leadership. C. Enabling Panchayats to have control over their own resources: 1. Ifa Gram Panchayat is capable of doing effective work for village people’s participation in Gram Sabha gets enhanced. 2. A number of provisions have been incorporated in the Constitution to strengthen financial situations of PRIS.. PRIs have been empowered to levy and collect taxes/fees. 3. Central and State governments provide mostly tied (scheme specific) funds to Panchayats. 4. However panchayats do not have control over their own resources, 5. If provided actual control over all the physical and natural resources lying in their respective geographical areas, panchayats can easily mobilise tens of millions of rupees as their own revenue. D. Establishing linkages between Community Groups and PRIs: 1. Besides statutory bodies like GP and GS, there are a number of community groups in almost every village. 2. For effective collaborations of community organisations and PRis, the GS should be made aware, active and strong. 3. These community groups should have close interaction with specialised standing committees of GPs. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 19/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 4. In this regard, project-based committees should be strengthened to be more effective, autonomous and participatory. Que 3.14. What are various enabling aspects of direct participation in Panchayati Raj Institutions? Answer 1 Grassroots democracy can only be strengthened through people’s participation. 2. The PRIs should be given encompassing responsibility and authorities over local matters and be held accountable for those matters by their voters (the Gram Sabha). 3. It must be ensured that women and dalits participate actively and effectively in the local self- governance. 4. The state-led and other types of project committees should collaborate with PRIs and PRIs should provide a space to these community organisations. PART-4 Financial Organizations in Panchayati Raj Institutions. Questions-Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.15. Discuss the current financial position of PRIs in India. Answer https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 20/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. All PRIs have a poor fiscal base. Resource mobilisation by the PRIs is generally limited. 2. Therefore it is essential to provide PRIs with revenue raising powers of their own in order to reduce their excessive dependence on the State and Central Governments. 3 But till such time that they are financially dependent on funds from the State Governments, the State Budgets should specify the amount earmarked for district sector plans under Panchayati Raj as also their distribution among the three tiers. 3. It is suggested that 30-40 percent of a State’s Plan be devolved on local bodies 4. In addition, a part of the finances should be in the form of untied funds so that the funds can be utilised as per the felt needs of the Panchayats. 6 Training and capacity building of PRI functionaries is essential. 7. Devolution of financial resources must be accompanied by suitable strengthening of PRIs through transfer of departmental functionaries. Que 3.16. What is the need of Finance Commissions in Panchayati Raj Institutions? Also give the objectives of Finance Commissions. Answer Need of Finance Commissions: 1. There has been a concern with regard to the adequacy of resources of the Panchayati Raj Institutions to be commensurate with the functions that have been allotted to them. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 21/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 2. The various committees and commissions that were appointed have generally concluded that adequate finances are not available for performing the functions allotted to the PRIs. 3. They also do not have the freedom to tap and utilise the resources made available to them according to their needs, nor do they have funds for discriminatory expenditure. 5. There is scope for increasing the quantum of financial resources of PRIS 6. The Finance Commissions have been appointed in order to improve the financial position of the PRIs. Objectives of Finance Commissions: 1. To collect data with regard to the finances income and expenditure of the PRIs. 2 To study the structure and functions allocated to the Panchayati Raj Institutions at different levels and their performance. 2. To analyse the resource situation with regard to the functions allocated to the PRIs 3. To analyse the implications of the existing situation of I’Itla in relation to the 73 amendment. PART-5 Structure of Rural Finance Questions Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 22/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Que 3.17. Give the structure of rural finance in India. Answer The rural finance market comprises of A Organized or formal segment: 1. The formal segment consists of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Public and Private Sector Commercial Banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRB), Land Development Banks (LDB), State Cooperative Banks (SCB), Central Cooperative Banks (CCB), Primary Agricultural Cooperative Banks (PACB), Central and States Governments, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), Post Office Savings Bank, etc. 2 RBI is responsible for overall monetary policy and provides accommodation to NABARD and IDBI for agricultural and Rural Industries respectively. 2. These institutions in turn provide refinance to commercial banks including RRIF’s and SCB’s and State Land Development Banks (SLDB’s) 4 The refinance from NABARD is distributed to the rural entrepreneurs through two or three tier cooperative structures respectively for long term, short term and medium term lending. In case of commercial banks and RRB’s they refinance directly to the users. 4. Except LDB’s and PAC’s, all financing agencies collect, deposits from rural households. Post office saving banks are active in rural areas. B. Unorganized or informal segment: 1. Relatives and friends: Borrowers obtain their loans more promptly from relatives and friends and loans are virtually interest free 2. Money lenders: Money lenders are the main informal source of credit for rural household in India. Because in rural areas people do not have access to banks and other financial institutions. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 23/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 3. Traders and Commission Agents: Traders and Commission agents in village are in direct contact with the farmers. Much of their financing is really in the nature of advance payment for purchase of products. Que 3.18. Which are the various government organizations working in the field of rural finance in India? Answer 1. Reserve Bank of India (RBI): The Reserve Bank of India is India’s central bank and regulatory body under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Finance, Government of India. 2. National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): NABARD is an apex regulatory body for overall regulation of regional rural banks and apex cooperative banks in India. It is under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Finance, Government of India. 3. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are government owned scheduled commercial banks of India that operate at regional level in different states of India. 5. Land Development Banks (LDB): A land development bank is a special kind of bank in India. The main functioning of this bank is to develop the agriculture and tried to avoid the land corruption. 6. Cooperative Banks: The rural co-operative credit system in India is Primarily mandated to ensure flow of credit to the agriculture sector. It comprises short-term and long-term co-operative credit structures. The short-term co-operative credit structure operates with a three-tier system: Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) at the village level, Central Cooperative Banks (CCBs) at the district level and State Cooperative Banks (SCBs) at the State level. 7. Life Insurance Corporation (LIC): LIC is an Indian statutory insurance and investment corporation. It is under the ownership of Ministry of Finance, Government of India. Que 3.19. Write a short note on National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and its Vision and Mission. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 24/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Answer 1. The importance of institutional credit in boosting rural economy has been clear to the Government of India right from its early stages of planning 2 Therefore, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) at the insistence of the Government of India, constituted a committee to look into these very critical aspects 3. The Committee was formed on 30 March 1979, under the Chairmanship of Shri L. Sivaraman, former member of Planning Commission, Government of India. 4. The Committee submitted its interim report on 28 November 1979. & It outlined the need for a new organisational device for providing undivided attention, forceful direction and pointed focus to credit related sues linked with rural development. 5. Its recommendation was formation of a unique development financial institution which would address these aspirations. 6. Thus formation of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) was approved by the Parliament through Act 61 of 1981. 7. It was dedicated to the service of the nation by the late Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi on 05 November 1982 Vision: Development Bank of the Nation for Fostering Rural Prosperity. Mission: Promote sustainable and equitable agriculture and rural development through participative financial and non-financial interventions, innovations, technology and institutional development for securing prosperity. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 25/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Que 3.20. Discuss Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and their Objectives., Answer 1 In Mid 1970’s it was realised that more systematic and concentrated efforts were needed to strengthen the flow of institutional rural credit, with a view to developing the rural economy by providing for the purpose of agriculture, trade, commerce, industry and other productive activities in rural areas particularly to the small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, artisans and small entrepreneurs. 2. The Working Group under Shri M. Narasimham recommended the establishment of a new type of institution to supplement the efforts of commercial and cooperative institutions in the rural sector. 1 To legin with such rural banks were to be established in regions were the existing credit structure was wenk. This marked the beginning of Regional Kural Banks J The RRBs have achieved considerable degree of success in taking banking services to the remote areas which had hitherto remained unbunked and making available institutional credit to the weaker sections in these areas.. Every RRB functions as a commercial bank and apart from granting short term and long term loans directly, it is empowered to mobilise savings 5. They sanction loans for agriculture, allied activities, retail trade and small industries in the rural sector. 6. They also specifically cover the target group of small and marginal farmers, landless labourers, rural artisans etc., under the Integrated Rural Development Programme by extending credit to the poorest of the poor in the rural areas. S. These banks are also extending financial assistance to cooperative institutions of the local region to strengthen their financial base. Objectives: The main objectives of the Regional Rural Banks were to: https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 26/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. Take banking to the doorsteps of the rural masses, particularly in areas without banking facilities. 2 Make available cheaper institutional credit to the weaker sections of society. 2. Mobilise rural savings and channelise them for supporting productive activities in rural areas. 3. Generate employment opportunities in the rural areas. 4. Bring down the cost of providing rural credit. PART-6 Government and Non-Government Organizations/Community Based Organizations. Questions-Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.21. Which are the various government organizations that are associated with rural development? Answer 1. Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Ministry of Rural Development are associated with rural development. 2. The individual or the community in the village can interacts with PRIs at following level: https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 27/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. The Gram Panchayats at village level. ii. The Panchayat Samiti at block level.im. The Zila Parishad at district level. 2. Departments of Government: The Ministry of Rural Development consists of two departments, viz., A Department of Rural Development: 1. The department run three national-level schemes: Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) for rural roads development, Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY) rural employment and for rural housing, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) 2. It handles the administration of District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), and has three autonomous organisations under it 1. Council of Advancement of People’s Action and Rural Technology (CAPART) National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) National Rural Road Development Agency (NRRDA) B. Department of Land Resources: The Department of Land Resources runs three national-level program 1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojna (Watershed Development Component). 2 Digital India Land Record Modernization Programme 2. Neeranchal National Watershed Project. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 28/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Que 3.22. Describe the need for non-government organizations (NGOs) working in the field of rural development in India? Answer 1. Rural development is a complex process as it involves continuous reorientation and adaptation of traditional values with scientific knowledge and technologies to enhance quality of life and welfare of the people. 2 It is essentially a problem of change in modernization which can be handled effectively only with the active participation of the people in every stage of decision-making 2. For this to happen people have to be organized and enable to be active participants of the development process. 3. Given the manner government machinery operates, this job cannot be performed by the government servants. 4. This role is appropriately suited to the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) which have emerged as viable forces for the articulation of people’s needs and grievances. 5. Recognizing this government policy has also been to encourage NGOs to participate in the task of rural development. Que 3.23. Describe Community Based Organizations (CBOs). Answer 1. Community based organizations (CBOs) are nonprofit groups that work at a local levél to improve life for residents https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 29/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 2. The focus is to build equality across society in all streams 3. CBOs are typically, and almost necessarily, staffed by local members community members who experience first hand the needs within their neighborhoods. 4. Besides being connected geographically, the only link between staff members and their interests is often the desire and willingness to help. 6. In CBOs occupational skill sets and experience are greatly diverse. 7. Work conducted by CBOs generally falls into the themes of human services, natural environment conservation or restoration, and urban environment safety and revitalization. Examples include 1 Affordable housing. ii. Food security, iii. Environmental protection/conservation, iv. Community sustainability. V. Humanitarian/disaster response, vi. Medical relief funds. PART-7 https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 30/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Concept of Self Help Groups (SHGs). Questions-Answers Long Answer Type and Medium Answer Type Questions Que 3.24. What are Self Help Groups (SHGs)? Describe the functions of SHGs. Answer 1. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are informal associations of people who choose to come together to find ways to improve their living conditions, 3. It can be defined as self governed, peer controlled information group of people with similar socio- economic background and having a desire to collectively perform common purpose. 4. Villages face numerous problems related to poverty, illiteracy, lack of skills, lack of formal credit etc. These problems cannot be tackled at an individual level and need collective efforts. 5. Thus SHG can become a vehicle of change for the poor and marginalized. SHG rely on the notion of “Self Help” to encourage self-employment and poverty alleviation. Functions of SHGs: 1. Income generation for the poor. 2. Access to banks for poor, financial inclusion. 3. A pressure group in Gram Panchayats. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 31/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 4. Social Upliftment of marginal sections. 6. Upliftment of women. Que 3.25. Why SHG are a necessity in rural development? Answer 1. One of the chief reasons for rural poverty is the lack of access or limited access to credit and financial services. SHGs play a vital role in giving credit access to the poor and this is extremely crucial in poverty alleviation. 3. They also play a great role in empowering women because SHGs help women from economically weaker sections build social capital. 4. Financial independence through self-employment opportunities also helps improve other development factors such as literacy levels, improved healthcare and better family planning. Que 3.26. What are the various benefits of SHGs? Answer Following are the various benefits of SHGs: 1. Social integrity: SHGs encourages collective efforts for combating practices like dowry, alcoholism etc. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 32/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 3. Gender Equity: SHGs empowers women and inculcates leadership skill among them. Empowered women participate more actively in gram sabha and elections. 4. Pressure Groups: SHGs participation in governance process enables them to highlight issues such as dowry, alcoholism, the menace of open defecation, primary health care etc and impact policy decision. 5. Voice to marginalized section: Most of the beneficiaries of government schemes have been from weaker and marginalized communities and hence their participation through SHGs ensures social justice. 6. Financial Inclusion: Priority Sector Lending norms and assurance Of returns incentivize banks to lend to SHGs. The SHG-Bank linkage programme pioneered by NABARD has made access to credit easier and reduced the dependence on traditional money lenders and other non- institutional sources. 7. Alternate source of employment: SHGs eases dependency on agriculture by providing support in setting up micro-enterprises e.g. personalised business ventures like tailoring, grocery, and tool repair shops 8. Changes In Consumption Pattern: It has enabled the participating households to spend more on education, food and health than non- client households. 9. Banking literacy: It encourages and motivates its members to save and act as a conduit for formal banking services to reach them. Que 3.27. What are various problems associated with Self Help Groups (SHGs)? OR What are the various weaknesses of SHGs? Answer https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 33/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 1. Members of a group do not come necessarily from the poorest families. 2. Many of the activities undertaken by the SHGs are still based on primitive skills. With poor value addition and prevalence of subsistence level wages, such activities often do not lead to any substantial increase in the income of group members. 3. There is a lack of qualified resource personnel in the rural areas who could help in skill upgradation or acquisition of new skills by group members. 4. Poor accounting practices and incidents of misappropriation of funds. 5. Lack of resources and means to market their goods. 6. SHGs are heavily dependent on their promoter NGOs and government agencies. The withdrawal of support often leads to their collapse. Que 3.28. Give some measures to make SIIGs more effective. Answer 1. The Government should create a supportive environment for the growth and development of the SHG movement. It should play the role of a facilitator and promoter. 2. Expanding SHG movement to credit deficient areas of the country. 3. Rapid expansion of financial infrastructure by adopting extensive IT enabled communication and capacity building measures. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 34/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad 4. Extension of Self-Help Groups to Urban/Peri-Urban Areas. Efforts should be made to increase income generation abilities of the urban poor. 5. SHG monitoring cell should be established in every state. 6. Commercial Banks and NABARD in collaboration with the State Government need to continuously innovate and design new financial products for these groups *****2nd DRAFT****** Unit 3 Bureaucracy Administration " Panchayati Raj & Rural Administration What They Do: and Structure of Bureaucracy: A system with many levels and clear rules about who does what and how things get done. You might find bureaucracies in governments, companies, and even dubs. In Panchayati Raj, the bureaucracy refers to the officials Working within the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) at different levels. Planning and Budgeting: They make annual plans and budgets for village development projects. Helping in Times of Need: They organize relief efforts during natural disasters. Keeping Things Tidy: They manage public property structures and remove any unauthorized Community Spirit: They encourage villagers to volunteer for community projects. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 35/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad " Structure of Administration: The way different parts of an organization are arranged to achieve specific goals. It's like a blueprint showing who reports to whom and what each part is responsible for. Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) India's rural development system is based on a three-tlered Panchayati Raj structure: 1. Gram Panchayat (Vllage Level) A Gram Panchayat is the village council at the most basic level of the Panchayati Raj system in India. Imagine it as a mini-government for your village! The most basic unit, directly elected by villagers. It handles village-level development activities like sanitation, water supply, and primary education. How it Works: A village divided into sections (constituencies) based on the number of voters. Each constituency elects one member. These elected members come together to form the Gram Panchayat., like a village cabinet. Keeping Track: They maintain records and statistics about the village. Village Improvement: They work on projects related to education, health, agriculture, and more. Giving a Voice: They represent the villagers' concems to higher authorities. Setting Rules: They create and enforce rules for the village to function smoothly, including collecting taxes. 2. Panchayat Samiti (Block Level) The Panchayat Samiti is like a mini-parliament that looks after a group of villages called a "development block. Here's a breakdown of what it is and what it does: What it is: A rural local government body in India at the intermediate level (between village and district). Often called the "panchayat of panchayats" because Panchayats. Who's Who: it cOordinates village-level A mix of elected representatives from villages (Gram Panchayats). government officials, and seats reserved for under-represented groups. Download from: https/kkworld. in " https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 36/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Elects a Chalrman and Deputy Chairman for a flve-year term. Key Functions: Plans, executes, and oversees development programs for the entire bloc. Supervises the work of Gram Panchayats within its area Encourages villagers to take initiative and improve their lives. Provides support for implementing development programs. Looks after the welfare and development of various sectors like agriculture, healthcare. education, and sanitation. " 3. Manages funds and loans for village housing projects. Zila Parishad (District Level) What is it? The Zila Parishad (District Council or Mandal Parishad or District Panchayat) is the highest level of the Panchayati Raj system in India. Imagine it as the district council, overseeing all the villages and blocks within a district. Who's Involved? Elected Members: People in the district vote for representatives. Block Leaders: Heads of Panchayats (Panchayat Samiti) are part of the Zila Parishad. Government Representatives: Members of Parliament and state legislature from the district have a seat. Officials: A chief executive officer manages the administration, supported by a deputy secretary. How Does It Work? The Zila Parishad is elected for a five-year term. It acts as a bridge between the state government and the village councils (Gram Panchayats). Download from: https:/kkworld in Made by: https:/lyoutube.comkrazykaksha What Does it Do? Advising Blocks: The Zila Parishad provides quidance and recommendations to the block-level Panchayats. Approving Plans: It reviews and approves budgets and development plans proposed by the blocks. Funding Distribution: The Zila Parishad https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 37/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad allocates funds from the government to different blocks within the district. Education Focus: It takes responsibility for managing secondary education in the district. Rural Development Champion: The Zila Parishad advises the state government on matters related to rural development in the district. Monitoring Progress: It reviews and evaluates the effectiveness of various development programs implemented at the block level. Objectives of Panchayat Raj 1. 2. 3. block-level 4. 6. Helping Those in Need: Taking care of the poor and vulnerable in the village. Working Together: Encouraging villagers to cooperate and support each other. Local Businesses: Helping villagers start businesses they own and run together. Using What's Available: Making the most of the resources and people already in the village. Focus on Farming: Making sure growing crops and raising animals is a priority for the village. Sharing Power: Spreading decision-making among different Panchayati Raj levels and involving volunteers. 7. More Village Businesses: Supporting small businesses that make and sell things in the village. Working Together Nicely: Making sure elected officials and village workers understand and Communicate well Made by: https:/youtube.com/krazykaksha Gram Sabha The Gram Sabha is like a village meeting! All adults gather to discuss village issues. They can: Talk about problems like water or roads. " " Suggest solutions and ideas for improvement. Approve plans made by the village council (Gram Panchayat). Basically, they have a say in how their village develops! Emergence and Growth of Panchayati Raj Institutions in India Panchayati Raj is all about villages governing themselves! It wasn't a new idea in India. Villages already had Panchayats that handled local issues and disputes, kind of like mini-courts. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 38/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Even Mahatma Gandhi believed in empowering these Panchayats for a better rural India. The Constitution Takes Notice: " Knowing their importance, our Constitution includeda provision for Panchayats (Article 40). This article tells states to set up village Panchayats and give them the power to function as self-goveming units. But, it didn't specify how these Panchayats would be organized. Building a Structure: A committee led by Balwant Rai Mehta came up with the first formal structure for Panchayati Raj in 1957. They suggested a three-tier system with village. block, and district levels. They also wanted direct elections for the village level. Taking Steps: Rajasthan became the first state to set up a Panchayati Raj system in 1959. Download from: https://kkword. in and marginalized communities (Scheduled Castes/Tribes) to ensure their voices are heard. Election Commission: Each state has a Special commission to handle Panchavat elections fairly. Flve-Year Term: Panchayats work for five years, with new elections if dissolved early. Financial Support: A commission is set up every five years to recommend how to provide funds for Panchayats. Financial Organizations in Panchayati Raj Institutions Village councils (Panchayati Raj Institutions or PRIS) need money to do their jobs! But where does it come from? Mostly from the Government: " Central grants: The national government gives money based on recommendations, often for specific projects like building schools. State government funds: Each state sets aside some money for PRIs based on their own priorities. Tax sharing: Some states share a bit of the taxes they collect with PRIs for a more reliable income. A little bit on their own (depending on the state): Small taxes: PRis can charge a little bit of tax, like a property tax or a fee for using the public toilets. Market fees: They can also collect money from people who use the village market or other facilities. Other sources (not as common): Extra grants: Sometimes the government gives extra money for special projects. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 39/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad Loans: PRIs can borrow money for big projects, but they have to be careful not to borrow too much. Rethinking and Improvement: Another committee. led by Ashok Mehta, reviewed the system in 1977. They suggested changes likea two-tier system, regular checks on spending, allowing political parties at all levels, and reservations for disadvantaged communities. The Journey Continues: " More committees followed, all aiming to strengthen Panchayati Raj. One committee, led by L.M. Singhvi, was the first propose constitutional status. A Landmark Moment: giving Panchayati Raj Finally, in 1992, the 73rd Amendment Act made Panchayati Raj a part of the Constitution! This quaranteed regular elections, reservations for women and marginalized communities, and more power and resources for Panchayats. The 73rd Amendment Act Big Change for Village Counclis! In 1992, the Indian Constitution got an update (73rd Amendment) to strengthen Panchayati Raj. This added a new section about Panchayats and gave them more power. Key Points: Gram Sabhas: Ensured village meetings are held for everyone to discuss issues. Three Tiers: Established a clear structure with village (Gram Panchayat), block (Panchayat Samiti), and district (Zila Parishad) levels. Direct Elections: People directly vote for most Panchayat representatives. Age Limit: You need to be at least 21 years old to run for Panchayat elections. Reservations: Seats are reserved for Women Made by: https:/youtube.com/krazykaksha The Problem: PRIs often dont have enough money to do everything they need to do. They rely too much on the government, which can limit their choices. Structure of Rural Finance Rural areas need money for development, just like cities! Here's how they get it: Formal Sources (organized institutlons): Banks: Regular banks offer loans and savings accounts individuals. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 40/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad for farmers. businesses, and CooperatBve Banks: These banks are owned by their members, often focusing on agriculture and rural credit. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): Set up specifically to serve rural areas, offering loans and other financial services. NABARD (National Bank for Agriculturo and Rural Development): This government bank provides refinancing to other rural financial institutions and promotes rural development initiatives. Informal Sources (less organized): Money lenders: Individuals or small businesses that lend money at high interest rates, which can trap borrowers in debt. Landlords: Some landlords may advance loans to tenants in exchange fora share of the crops. Self-heip groups (SHGs): Groups of villagers, often women, who pool their savings and provide small loans to each other. Choosing the Right Source: Formal sources are generally safer and offer lower interest rates. but may have stricter requirements. Informal sources can be more fexible but can be risky due to high interest rates. Download from: https://kkworld. in Made bV: httos:/youtube.com/krazvkaksha NABARD Imagine a giant bank that cares about villages! That's NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) It's like a super bank that helps other banks lend more money in villages. Why was NABARD Created? In the past, India faced challenges in boosting rural development through just planning. The agricultural and rural economy needed financial The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), at the government's request, formed a committee in 1979 to address these issues. The Birth of NABARD: This committee, led by Shri B. Sivaraman, highlighted the need for a new organization to focus on rural credit needs. They recommended creating a unique development bank dedicated to rural areas. Based on this recommendation, the Parliament approved the formation of NABARD in 1981. It was officially launched in 1982 by Prime Minlster Indira Gandhl. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 41/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad What Does NABARD Do? " Makes it easier for famers to get loans for things like land, animals, and crops. Supports small businesses in villages so they can create jobs. Helps fund projects that improve villages, like better roads or schools. Teaches people in villages about saving money and using loans wisely (inancial literacy). Download from: https:/kkworld.in Geograp Local, hic Scope Leaders international national, Local (village. town, neighborhood) May have paid staff Led by volunteers or hip and professionalmembers of the leadership Funding Donations, fundraising community grants, Membership local fundraising. sometimes government grants Structur More formalized structure with boardsstructure, Less and diretors Account Accountable | ablity donors and funders ExampleRed Cross, UNICEF, Greenpeace based on social ties to Accountable to the Community serve Local Women's cooperatives, neighborthood development groups, youth clubs wider Deep understanding ges Advanta Access to resources expertise DisadvaMay ntages https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 42/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad be and of local needs and strong community Connections Jess Limited resources responsive to local and capacity needs Self-Help Groups (SHGs) Imagine a group of people In your community coming together to support each other! That's what Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are all about. They are small groups (10-25 people) who work together to improve their social and economic Government Organizations & Non-Government There are many organizations working to improve people's lives. Here's a breakdown of two main types: 1. Government Organizations (GOs): Who they are: Run by the government, funded by taxes we pay. they do: Provide essential services like education, healthcare, roads, and social welfare programs. Examples: o Public schools and hospitals o 2. Police and fire departments Social security and welfare programs Non-Governmernt Organizations (NGOs) and Communty Based Organizations (CBOs): " Who they are: Not run by the government, rely on donations, grants, and fundraising. What they do: Focus on specific social issues like poverty, education, environment, or human rights. o healthcare. CBOs are usually smaller and focus on a specific community's needs. Examples: o NGOs: Red Cross (disaster relief). UNICEF (Children's rights), Greenpeace (environment). o CBOs: Local women's cooperatives, neighborthood youth clubs. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 43/44 1/17/25, 2:28 PM Online Notepad NGO Vs. CBO Feature NGO development groups, CBO (Community (Non-Governmental Based Organizatlon) Focus Organization) Broad social issues Specific needs of a (poverty. education, particular healthcare. environment, human rights) Community Made by: https:/lyoutube.com/krazykaksha How SHGs Work: Membership: Usually people from similar backgrounds (income, social status) in a village or community. Activities: o Savings: Members contribute small amounts regularty, creating a pool of fees. formal often they noney. Loans: Members can borrow fromn the pool for various needs (education, healthcare, business) with fair interest rates. Peer Support: Members share advice, skills, and encouragement with each other. Benefits: o Empowerment: Members gain financial independence and confidence. o Financial Security: Access to savings and loans helps manage finances better. o Community Building: Creates a strong support network within the community. Examples of SHGs: Women's groups saving for their children's education. Farmers pooling resources to buy better seeds or equipment. Artisans working together to market their crafts. https://onlinenotepad.org/notepad 44/44