Rajasthan Government Adopts MP's Sarpanch Tenure Model

Synopsis
In a significant move, the Rajasthan government has extended the tenure of Sarpanchs and appointed them as administrators of Gram Panchayats, following the Madhya Pradesh model. This ensures uninterrupted rural governance and administrative continuity until new Panchayats are formed.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan extends Sarpanch tenure.
- Outgoing Sarpanchs appointed as administrators.
- Inspired by Madhya Pradesh model.
- Administrative committees formed to assist.
- Gram Panchayat accounts to be jointly managed.
Jaipur, January 16 (NationPress) The government of Rajasthan has announced an extension of the tenure for Sarpanchs and designated them as administrators of Gram Panchayats.
The initiative is inspired by the model implemented in Madhya Pradesh, where outgoing Sarpanchs continue to hold administrative roles even after their official terms conclude.
To facilitate the ongoing operations of Panchayats, an official directive has been issued. The tenure of 6,759 Gram Panchayats, which is set to expire on January 17, 2024, has been extended. This decision was made under the special provisions of the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994.
Outgoing Sarpanches have been appointed as administrators, and an administrative committee, which includes the outgoing Deputy Sarpanch and Ward Panchs, has been established to assist in the functioning of the Panchayat.
This committee will work in conjunction with the Sarpanch-administrators on policy decisions, offer guidance during Panchayat meetings, and handle routine duties.
Moreover, the Gram Panchayat bank accounts will be managed jointly by the outgoing Sarpanch and the respective Gram Vikas Adhikari. The administrative committee will remain in place until the day before the first meeting of the newly elected Panchayat.
The government has also highlighted that activities related to rural development and local administration will continue seamlessly until the formation of new Panchayats.
Currently, Rajasthan has over 11,000 Gram Panchayats, each with different expiration dates for their tenures. While 6,759 Panchayats will finish their terms in January 2024, 704 will do so in March, and 3,847 will complete their terms in September-October.
To ensure a smooth transition and allow for simultaneous elections, the government has appointed administrators for the Panchayats nearing expiration. This decision reflects the state government's dedication to enhancing administrative efficiency, electoral coordination, and rural governance in accordance with the Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, according to officials.