The Makkala Grama Sabha, organized by the Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, aims to give children a platform to voice their concerns. However, there have been complaints about the irregularity of these meetings and their failure to serve their intended purpose. In response, the Dakshina Kannada (DK) Zilla Panchayat has directed officials to conduct the sabhas more effectively.
Anandh K, CEO of Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat, acknowledged that while most panchayats have been following the administration’s repeated requests to conduct the sabhas, some are still lagging. These panchayats have been asked to improve their participation. “Compared to other districts, Dakshina Kannada has been exceptionally successful in holding Makkala Grama Sabhas. Some even go beyond the required format to make them more impactful,” said Anandh.
The Makkala Grama Sabhas are typically held between November and January, with a mandate from the state government to ensure their regular implementation. Each gram panchayat organizes these sabhas, involving schoolchildren, PDOs, schoolteachers, and other stakeholders. The platform is meant to address grievances that students face, including issues related to midday meals, transportation, drinking water, roads, drainage, school infrastructure, and child rights.
Some gram panchayats have gone a step further, adding value to the process. For instance, Ullaibettu GP organized a series of competitions for schoolchildren, calling it ‘Makkala Habba,’ before the sabha. Similarly, Nellur Kemraje GP held competitions and distributed prizes prior to their sabha. Positive changes, like maintaining minutes of the meetings, have also been noted by former District Child Welfare Committee president Renny D’Souza.
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