The Ashok Mehta Committee, officially known as the Committee on Panchayati Raj Institutions, was established in India in 1977. Its primary objective was to examine the existing structure and functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and recommend measures for their revitalization and strengthening. The committee, chaired by Ashok Mehta, submitted its report in 1978.
Key Recommendations of the Ashok Mehta Committee:
- Three-Tier Structure: The committee advocated for a three-tier structure of PRIs at the village, intermediate, and district levels.
- Functional Devolution: It emphasized the devolution of significant functional responsibilities to the PRIs, enabling them to play a more active role in rural development.
- Financial Resources: The report stressed the importance of providing adequate financial resources to the PRIs to effectively discharge their functions.
- Personnel Management: Recommendations were made for improved personnel management and training for PRI officials.
- Participatory Planning: The committee highlighted the need for greater participation of the people in planning and implementation of rural development programs.
Significance and Impact:
The Ashok Mehta Committee's recommendations, though not fully implemented at the time, significantly influenced subsequent reforms in Panchayati Raj. Its emphasis on decentralization and people's participation laid the groundwork for the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which provided a constitutional basis for PRIs and urban local bodies respectively. While the implementation has faced challenges, the committee's work remains crucial in understanding the evolution and challenges of rural governance in India.
Further research on the specific details of the report and its implementation is encouraged. You can find more information through academic databases and government archives.
