Udupi: Six gram panchayats from Karnataka, including five from Udupi district, have been selected for the prestigious Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grama Vikas Puraskar under various categories.
The selected gram panchayats are Mudradi and Madamakki from Hebri taluk, Vandse and Hakladi from Kundapur taluk, Sanoor from Karkala, and Halnayakanahalli from Bengaluru. Each award-winning panchayat will receive a cash prize ranging from ₹75 lakh to ₹1.50 crore.
Mudradi recognised for livelihood initiatives
Mudradi gram panchayat has been honoured under the Poverty-Free and Enhanced Livelihood Panchayat category. The selection was based on its notable efforts in promoting self-employment through women’s self-help groups and encouraging the use of modern agricultural machinery.
The panchayat has also been credited for effectively implementing both Central and State self-employment schemes, ensuring pension benefits for eligible beneficiaries, and achieving 100 per cent distribution under the public distribution system.
Madamakki awarded for water sustainability
Madamakki gram panchayat has received the Sustainable Drinking Water Scheme Award. The recognition highlights its success in conserving local water sources and ensuring consistent drinking water supply to households.
Officials noted that the panchayat adopted well-planned and sustainable measures to maintain water security across its jurisdiction.
Vandse recognised for healthcare services
Vandse gram panchayat has been selected for the Health Services Award. The evaluation considered the performance of its health centre, effective solid waste management practices, and proactive health initiatives in schools and anganwadis.
The panchayat also stood out for organising special health camps and introducing palliative care services for bedridden patients through the Neeramaya Society, which played a key role in its selection.
Hakladi honoured for social justice efforts
Hakladi gram panchayat has been chosen for the Social Justice and Social Security Panchayat Award. The recognition reflects its efficient utilisation of government grants across various sections of society, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, differently-abled individuals, and other vulnerable groups.
The panchayat has reportedly achieved over 80 per cent progress across development indicators and effectively implemented employment guarantee schemes.
Sanoor recognised for infrastructure development
Sanoor gram panchayat has been awarded in the Infrastructure Sector category. Its achievements include the installation of streetlights across the village, provision of sustainable drinking water, and development of scientific drainage systems.
Additionally, the panchayat has focused on improving rural road connectivity, enhancing the quality of education in local institutions, and creating employment opportunities within the community.
Recognition beyond Udupi
Apart from Udupi district, Halnayakanahalli gram panchayat from Bengaluru has also been selected for the award, highlighting the broader representation of Karnataka at the national level.
Conclusion
The selection of five gram panchayats from Udupi district for national recognition underscores the region’s strong performance in rural development and governance. The awards not only bring financial support but also serve as a model for other panchayats aiming to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth.