Getting the ‘Micropicture’ at the Panchayat Level

22.05.2025

Getting the ‘Micropicture’ at the Panchayat Level

Context :

Data Governance Challenges and the Case for Decentralization

• Limited Accessibility of Government Data: Though platforms like data.gov.in provide rich data under the 2012 policy, poor formats make it hard to use. This limits access for citizens, officials, and researchers.
• Lack of Granular Focus in Current Data Systems: Most existing digital platforms are designed for high-level administrators and departmental use, often neglecting the practical needs of officials at the district, block, and Gram Panchayat levels. This gap prevents the creation of a detailed "micropicture" of local development.
• Weak Analytical and Visualization Capabilities: Inadequate tools for data interpretation and visualization hinder evidence-based policymaking, leading to a reliance on administrative experience rather than empirical insights, thereby affecting the quality of decentralized planning.
   

Significance and Features of the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI)

• Comprehensive Framework: The PAI assesses Gram Panchayat development using 435 indicators across nine SDG-linked themes, aligned with the National Indicator Framework.
• Data Coverage Gaps: Out of 2.16 lakh GPs, around 11,000 were excluded due to invalid data; only 40% of GPs in Uttar Pradesh submitted validated information, raising concerns over data reliability.
• Action-Oriented Dashboard: The PAI platform offers constituency-level insights, enabling MPs, MLAs, and departments to identify sector-specific gaps and implement targeted development interventions.

Transformative Potential and the Road Ahead

• Enabling Focused SDG Delivery: PAI links local data with clear indicators like “Healthy Panchayat,” boosting accountability, collaboration, and outcome-based actions.
• Engaging Academic and Civic Networks: Over 4,000 Unnat Bharat Abhiyan institutions are encouraged to use PAI for local capacity building and community-driven solutions.
• Institutionalization and Wider Adoption: Trained analysts are needed for regular monitoring. A similar index for urban local bodies is also essential for wider impact.

Conclusion :

PAI advances decentralized governance by improving local data access, analysis, and planning. Strengthening data quality, capacity building, and urban adoption is vital to boost SDG delivery, accountability, and grassroots development.