Committees

Standing Committees in Kerala Gram Panchayats and Their Major Functions

To ensure efficient administration and promote decentralization in the Gram Panchayats of Kerala, four Standing Committees have been constituted. Under the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, each committee has clearly defined powers and responsibilities.

The Standing Committees in a Gram Panchayat and their major functions are as follows:

1. Finance Standing Committee

The Finance Standing Committee is responsible for matters relating to the financial management and planning of the Gram Panchayat. The Vice President of the Gram Panchayat serves as the Chairperson of this Committee.

Major Functions

  • Prepare the annual budget and monitor the financial management of the Panchayat.
  • Lead the preparation of the Annual Development Plans.
  • Examine income and expenditure accounts and take follow-up action on audit reports.
  • Deal with matters relating to the levy and collection of taxes, fees, and other revenues.
  • Scrutinize financial recommendations submitted by other Standing Committees and place them before the Panchayat Committee for approval.

2. Development Standing Committee

The Development Standing Committee is responsible for the physical infrastructure development and economic development activities within the jurisdiction of the Gram Panchayat.

Major Functions

  • Supervise agriculture, animal husbandry, soil and water conservation, and minor irrigation programmes.
  • Promote fisheries and small-scale industries.
  • Oversee public works, including the construction and maintenance of roads, buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure.
  • Ensure the installation and maintenance of street lighting.
  • Implement and promote environmental protection and conservation activities.

3. Welfare Standing Committee

The Welfare Standing Committee focuses on the welfare of socially and economically disadvantaged sections, social security, and poverty alleviation programmes.

Major Functions

  • Identify eligible beneficiaries and approve applications for various social security pensions, including old-age, widow, disability, and agricultural workers' pensions.
  • Promote the welfare and development of Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST).
  • Oversee programmes for the development of women and children, including the functioning of Anganwadi Centres.
  • Implement poverty alleviation programmes and housing schemes for the homeless, such as the LIFE Mission.
  • Implement welfare schemes for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.

4. Health and Education Standing Committee

The Health and Education Standing Committee is responsible for promoting public health, sanitation, and education within the Gram Panchayat.

Major Functions

  • Plan and supervise public health programmes and communicable disease prevention activities.
  • Review the functioning of Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Family Health Centres (FHCs), and other health institutions within the Panchayat.
  • Plan and monitor sanitation and solid waste management programmes.
  • Improve the physical infrastructure and facilities of Government and Aided Schools.
  • Promote sports, cultural activities, and public libraries.