NEW DELHI: The government is set to release a detailed report on how well Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are functioning across India. Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S. P. Singh Baghel, will launch the Devolution Index Report on Thursday, February 13, 2025. This report will show how much power and responsibility have been given to Panchayats in different states and Union Territories.

The Panchayati Raj Ministry said this report is a big step towards making Panchayats stronger and achieving the goal of local self-government, as defined in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.

The Devolution Index is based on detailed research and analysis. It checks how much independence Panchayats have in making decisions and implementing them. The index focuses on six key areas such as "Framework", "Functions", "Finances", "Functionaries' "Capacity Building"  and "Accountability".

The report will also ensure how freely Panchayats can function under Article 243-G of the Indian  Constitution, which allows states to transfer powers and responsibilities to them in 29 different sectors.

The government considers that the Devolution Index will help improve co-operative federalism and local governance. It will help states identify weak areas and learn from best practices. The index will also bring more transparency, helping citizens understand how Panchayats work and how resources are used.

Policy-makers can use this report to make data-driven decisions and improve governance at the local level. It will act as a guide for strengthening de-centralisation policies and making sure that Panchayats can function more efficiently.