AP Panchayat Raj Department wins five National Awards

In an administrative milestone, the Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Raj Department has secured five national awards, underlining a strong resurgence in grassroots governance and rural development. The department, steered by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, has been recognised by the Union Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj for its outstanding performance across multiple categories.

According to official announcements, Andhra Pradesh emerged as the top performer in two critical national programmes, Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) and Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari, reflecting a decisive push towards strengthening local self-governance and sustainable water management. The state also secured second place in one category and third place in two others, taking its total tally to five awards.

The achievement marks a dramatic turnaround in performance indicators. Notably, Andhra Pradesh had ranked 24th in the RGSA during the previous administration, but has now surged to the number one position nationally. The programme focuses on transforming gram panchayats into self-reliant institutions through structured planning, capacity building, and efficient service delivery.

Similarly, in the Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari initiative, which promotes cost-effective rainwater harvesting and community participation in water conservation, the state’s proactive implementation has placed it at the top of the national rankings. Officials attribute this success to a combination of policy focus and grassroots mobilisation.

Since assuming charge, Pawan Kalyan has overseen key portfolios including Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, Rural Water Supply, Forests, Environment, and Science & Technology.