Panchayat Secretariat Strengthening Scheme

Description
The "Panchayat Secretariat Strengthening Scheme" by the Panchayati Raj Department, Government of Jharkhand, aims to enhance the functioning of Gram Panchayats by providing financial support for their operations and maintenance. Under this scheme, a monthly grant of is provided to each Gram Panchayat to cover administrative expenses, infrastructure development, and service enhancements. Objective: 1. Fund Allocation: - Funds are allocated by the District Panchayat Raj Officers to each Panchayat Secretariat. - Funds must be used with the approval of the Panchayat Samiti and should be linked to an e-voucher-based monitoring system. 1. Utilization Guidelines: - Expenditure should be approved for activities like reconciliation of bank accounts, purchase of consumables, repair of computers/equipment, electricity, and water bills. - Panchayat Secretariats must maintain proper records of expenses. 1. Service and Support Centers: - Panchayat Bhavans will host service centers such as Common Service Centres, Post Offices, Bank Branches, ATM services, and Sub-Registrar offices. - These centers will improve public service delivery in rural areas. 1. Sanitation and Infrastructure: - Cleanliness, drinking water, seating arrangements, and cleanliness-related provisions to be maintained using allocated funds. 1. Safety Measures: - Installation of CCTV cameras, lighting, and other safety equipment is encouraged. 1. Digital and Internet Facilities: - Internet recharge and maintenance for seamless online services are covered under this scheme. 1. Electricity and Fuel: - Provision for electricity/fuel for operating Panchayat facilities is also included. 1. Miscellaneous: - Expenditure on new items or costs beyond the allocated amount requires prior approval from competent authorities. - Annual usage will be monitored, and excess expenditure if any must be split 50-50 between the Panchayat Secretary and Mukhia.

Exclusions
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Benefits
• A monthly grant of ₹15,000 per Gram Panchayat for operational expenses.
• NOTE: Electronic fund transfer mechanism for timely disbursement every quarter.

Eligibility Criteria
1. The Gram Panchayats must within the state of Jharkhand.
2. The Gram Panchayat must have an operational Panchayat Secretariat in place to receive and utilize the grant.
3. The Gram Panchayat must maintain proper records, documentation, and reconciliation of expenditures to continue receiving support under the scheme.
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Application Process
Step 1: Step 1: The interested applicant should visit (during office hours) the District Panchayati Raj/Panchayati Raj Department and request a hard copy of the prescribed format of the application form from the staff exclusively entrusted to issue and co…
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Step 1: The interested applicant should visit (during office hours) the District Panchayati Raj/Panchayati Raj Department and request a hard copy of the prescribed format of the application form from the staff exclusively entrusted to issue and collect filled-in applications.

Step 2: Step 2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields, and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required).
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Step 2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields, and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required).

Step 3: Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents to the District Panchayati Raj/Panchayati Raj Department.
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Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents to the District Panchayati Raj/Panchayati Raj Department.

Step 4: Step 4: Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority to whom the application has been submitted. Ensure that the receipt contains essential details such as the date and time of submission, and a unique identification number (if…
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Step 4: Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority to whom the application has been submitted. Ensure that the receipt contains essential details such as the date and time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).

Required Documents
• Gram Panchayat Registration Certificate.
• Active Bank Account Details.
• Previous Utilization Certificates (if applicable).
• Audit Reports (if applicable).
• Resolution Copy from the Gram Panchayat approving fund utilization.
• Proof of Expenditure for sanctioned activities.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Panchayats use funds for building new infrastructure?
A: No, funds are meant for maintenance and operational expenses, not for new infrastructure projects.

Q: Can the grant amount be used for salary payments?
A: No, the grant cannot be used for salary payments but can be utilized for security services, sanitation, internet, and operational expenses.

Q: What measures are in place to ensure proper fund utilization?
A: All transactions undergo quarterly reconciliation, and misused funds will be recovered with penalties from the responsible officials.

Q: How often is the grant disbursed?
A: The grant is disbursed quarterly, and the Panchayat must submit a utilization certificate to receive the next installment.

Q: What happens if a Panchayat fails to submit the utilization certificate?
A: Failure to submit the utilization certificate within the stipulated time may result in fund suspension or disciplinary action.

Q: Where can Gram Panchayats apply for this scheme?
A: Gram Panchayats do not need to apply separately. The funds are allocated through the District Panchayati Raj Officer based on eligibility and compliance.

Q: Is there any provision for grievance redressal?
A: Yes, grievances related to fund disbursement and utilization can be addressed at the District Panchayati Raj Office.

Q: Are there any penalties for fund mismanagement?
A: Yes, any misuse of funds will result in penalties, including recovery of 50% from the Mukhiya and 50% from the Panchayat Secretary.

Q: What happens if BharatNet services are unavailable?
A: In such cases, Panchayats can opt for internet services from other providers as per approved rates.

Q: Is there any flexibility in fund allocation?
A: Funds are allocated annually, and any excess expenditure in a particular month can be adjusted within the next two months.

Q: Can Panchayats hire permanent staff under this scheme?
A: No, only part-time staff, security personnel, and sanitation workers can be hired temporarily.

Q: Who monitors the implementation of this scheme?
A: District Panchayati Raj Officers oversee the scheme's implementation, ensuring compliance with financial and operational guidelines.