Grama Sabha
Grama Sabha
A Strong Pillar of Local Self-Governance Through People's Participation
What is a Grama Sabha?
A Grama Sabha consists of all persons whose names are included in the electoral roll of a village within the jurisdiction of a Grama Panchayat.
Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha Member
A voter of a particular ward is a member of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha of that ward.
Convener
Ward Members and Ward Councillors are respectively the Conveners of the Grama Sabhas and Ward Sabhas. Where necessary, an alternate person may be appointed to perform the duties of the Convener.
Chairperson
The Grama Panchayat President presides over the Grama Sabha, while the Municipal Chairperson presides over the Ward Sabha. In their absence, the responsibility may be entrusted to another authorized person.
Convening of Meetings
The responsibility for convening meetings of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha rests with the Convener.
Quorum
The quorum is 10% of the total number of voters. When an adjourned meeting is reconvened due to lack of quorum, the quorum shall be 50 members.
Right to Request a Special Meeting
If at least 10% of the voters of a ward submit a written request, a special meeting shall be convened within 15 days.
Coordinator
An officer appointed by the Grama Panchayat or Municipality shall function as the Coordinator and assist the Convener.
Questions and Suggestions
Members have the right to submit questions and suggestions in writing either before the meeting or during the meeting.
Resolutions
Resolutions may be passed by majority on matters falling within the jurisdiction of the Grama Sabha or Ward Sabha.
Powers and Responsibilities of the Grama Sabha / Ward Sabha
- Planning and Implementation of Development Projects
Assist in collecting information required for formulating development projects.
Prepare proposals for projects and development programmes to be implemented and determine their priorities.
Examine draft projects and determine the order of priority.
Provide and mobilize voluntary service, financial assistance, and material support. - Public Utility Projects
Suggest locations where streetlights are to be installed.
Determine locations for public water supply taps, public wells, and sanitation facilities.
Suggest other public utility projects, including irrigation facilities. - Repair and Maintenance Works
Obtain information regarding estimates and expenditure details of works that have been completed or are proposed to be implemented.
Monitor and assist the functioning of beneficiary committees.
Collect detailed information about the works proposed to be implemented in the area.