05 Jul 2024  |   06:15am IST

Directorate of Panchayats implements ‘Guidance Document for Bal Gram Sabhas’

Team Herald

MARGAO: Complying with the recommendations of the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR), the Directorate of Panchayats has enforced the ‘Guidance Document for Bal Gram Sabhas’. 

These guidelines, drafted by the GSCPCR, aim to empower children by providing a democratic platform for them to voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions directly to local governing bodies.

The ‘Guidance Document for Bal Gram Sabhas’ outlines the procedural framework and operational guidelines for conducting Bal Gram Sabhas within villages and municipalities effectively.

This initiative is designed to foster inclusive governance by recognising children as important stakeholders in the community.

The key objectives of this initiative include the empowerment of children, providing them with a platform to actively participate in local governance and ensuring their voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes. By involving children in the governance process, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive society that values the perspectives and contributions of its younger members. Additionally, this initiative seeks to enhance the child protection system at the grassroots level, leading to actionable insights and improvements in children's living conditions and rights.

The Directorate of Panchayats has directed all Block Development Officers to forward the guidance document to all village panchayats and ensure compliance with the outlined procedures. Each panchayat and municipality is encouraged to conduct at least two Bal Gram Sabhas per year, adhering to the guidelines provided. To ensure the effectiveness of this initiative, each panchayat/municipality is required to submit a compliance report to the GSCPCR within 30 days of conducting a Bal Gram Sabha. The report should detail the proceedings, outcomes, and any action plans derived from the Sabhas.

Peter F Borges, former Chairperson of GSCPCR, said, “This initiative is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive, safe, and child-friendly society. By empowering children and involving them in local governance, we are not only recognising their rights, but also fostering a culture of participation and accountability.”