Why in News? 

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has released a report titled “Status of Devolution to Panchayats in States.” It highlights how Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are being empowered across India. 

Key Highlights  

About the Report 

• Also called the Panchayat Devolution Index 2024, it measures how much power and resources are given to PRIs. 
• It checks how independent Panchayats are in making decisions and carrying out work, as per Article 243G of the Constitution. 

Dimensions: The report evaluates Panchayats based on six areas: Rules & Policies, Functions, Funds, Staffing, Training & Skill Development, Accountability 

Key Findings 

• More Power to Panchayats: Powers given to rural local bodies increased from 39.9% in 2013-14 to 43.9% in 2021-22. 
• Top & Bottom Ranked States: 
  • Top 5 States: Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh 
  • Lowest-ranked UTs/States: Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu (13.62), Puducherry (16.16), Ladakh (16.18) 
• Infrastructure & Digitalization: 
  • Government efforts have improved infrastructure, staffing, and digital tools for Panchayats. 
  • The staffing index improved from 39.6% to 50.9%. 
• Better Training for Panchayats: The Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA, 2018) helped improve training and skill-building, increasing the score from 44% to 54.6%.