Arpookara
Grama Panchayat

Citizen Charter 2025–26 – Summary Report

Arpookara Grama Panchayat

The Citizen Charter 2025–26 of Arpookara Grama Panchayat serves as a guide explaining the Panchayat’s functions, citizen services, powers of the Gram Sabha, responsibilities of the Panchayat, and the rights and duties of citizens. The primary objective of the Charter is to strengthen the accountable and participatory relationship between the Panchayat and the public.

Major Development Responsibilities of the Panchayat

The Grama Panchayat is responsible for implementing development activities in various sectors, including:

• Agricultural development, promotion of farming, organic agriculture, and paddy cultivation.
• Animal husbandry, dairy development, and veterinary services.
• Fisheries and aquaculture development.
• Housing schemes for the homeless and economically weaker sections.
• Drinking water supply and conservation of water resources.
• Education, libraries, and literacy programmes.
• Public health, sanitation, and disease prevention.
• Social welfare, including services for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
• Poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment.
• Roads, public works, electrification, and infrastructure development.

Statutory Responsibilities of the Panchayat

The Panchayat is legally responsible for:

• Assessment and collection of taxes and fees.
• Protection and maintenance of public properties.
• Issuance of licenses and permits.
• Preparation and implementation of development projects.
• Supervision and delivery of public services.
• Proper maintenance of accounts, registers, and audit records.

Role of the Gram Sabha

The Gram Sabha is the foundation of local self-government. Its major functions include:

• Providing suggestions for development projects.
• Approving beneficiary lists.
• Evaluating the quality of public services.
• Monitoring development activities.
• Participating in social audits.
• Promoting awareness on sanitation, environmental protection, and public health.

Rights of Citizens

Every citizen has the right to:

• Access Panchayat services.
• Participate in Gram Sabha meetings.
• Express opinions on development activities.
• Exercise the Right to Information.
• Receive public services in a timely and transparent manner.

Responsibilities of Citizens

Citizens are expected to:

• Participate actively in Gram Sabha meetings.
• Pay taxes and fees promptly.
• Protect public property.
• Maintain cleanliness and public health standards.
• Participate in environmental conservation activities.
• Promote women’s safety, anti-drug initiatives, and social harmony.
• Cooperate in waste management and sanitation programmes.

Social Responsibilities and Civic Duties

Based on the Constitution of India and the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, the Charter emphasizes civic responsibilities such as:

• Environmental protection.
• Preservation of public assets.
• Promotion of social harmony.
• Gender equality.
• Scientific temper and rational thinking.
• Upholding democratic values and responsible citizenship.

Key Messages

• People’s participation is the foundation of Panchayat development.
• Effective functioning of Gram Sabhas is essential for the success of development programmes.
• Sustainable development can be achieved only through cooperation between the Panchayat and the community.
• Along with rights, every citizen has a duty to fulfill their responsibilities.

Conclusion

The Citizen Charter 2025–26 of Arpookara Grama Panchayat serves as a comprehensive guide for residents regarding their rights, services, responsibilities, the functions of the Panchayat, and the role of the Gram Sabha. It acts as an important instrument for promoting transparency, accountability, social justice, public participation, and sustainable development within the Panchayat.