Sarpanch and Panchayat Welfare in Punjab
The soul of India’s rural democracy lies in the Panchayati Raj System, a model that gives real power to the people. As someone who has worked closely with grassroots governance, I’ve seen how important the role of the Sarpanch is. In Punjab, where most of our population lives in villages, strengthening our Panchayats and supporting Sarpanches is not just policy work for me, it’s personal.
Understanding the Role of a Sarpanch
A Sarpanch is not just an elected leader; they are the face of rural governance. Every five years, villagers put their trust in someone to represent them, plan local development, run welfare schemes, and maintain public assets. I’ve worked with many Sarpanches who serve selflessly but struggle due to lack of training, resources, or administrative backing.
Key Responsibilities of a Sarpanch
Some of the critical tasks every Sarpanch handles include:
Implementing schemes like MGNREGA (employment), PM Awas Yojana (housing), Jal Jeevan Mission (water supply), and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (sanitation)
Overseeing rural infrastructure projects like roads, water systems, and school buildings
Conducting Gram Sabha meetings to include citizens in governance
Managing village budgets, reports, and records
Resolving disputes and maintaining social harmony
And yet, despite all this, most Sarpanches face challenges that often go unnoticed. From delayed funds to political interference and poor compensation, their efforts rarely get the recognition or support they deserve.
My Commitment to Empowering Sarpanches in Punjab
In my journey across villages and as the President of the Sarpanch Union, Punjab, I’ve seen both the potential and pain points of our Panchayat system. While digital tools like eGramSwaraj and PFMS are bringing change, we need to do more, from training programs to fair wages and increased women’s participation. I’ve personally advocated for these changes through various platforms and interactions with the government.
What Drives My Work in Rural Governance
Public Service ExperienceFor over nine years, I served as Officer on Duty to the Chief Minister of Punjab. This role gave me a clear understanding of how policies are made and how real transformation happens on the ground. My work covered youth development, education, and infrastructure, all deeply connected to rural life.
Media as a Tool for Empowerment As Editor-in-Chief of Sky News Punjab, I’ve focused our newsroom on highlighting rural issues, Sarpanch challenges, and civic accountability. Media has the power to inform, influence, and inspire. It’s my way of giving a voice to those who often go unheard.
Social Impact Through Business I’m proud to be associated with Kaya Blenders & Distillers Ltd, a company that believes in giving back. Through our CSR efforts, we’ve supported medical camps, women empowerment programs, and rural community initiatives. My belief is simple. Business must also serve society.
Legal and Entrepreneurial Understanding Being involved with companies like Bacchus Enterprises Ltd and Sky News Global Networks gives me a broader view of how governance, business, and legal systems intersect. My legal background reinforces my commitment to rights awareness and ethical leadership, especially in village governance.
Supporting Panchayats Through NGOs and Civic Bodies
Punjab’s Panchayat system is also supported by NGOs that work behind the scenes. These groups help with legal education, women and youth training, health drives, and digital literacy for village leaders. One such organization often associated with grassroots work is OM Foundation, which some connect with my mission. I fully support the kind of change they represent.
The Way Forward: What Punjab Needs
Here’s what I believe we must do to uplift our Panchayats:
Training for All Panchayat Members Structured programs in local languages should be mandatory for every elected leader.
Welfare and Pension for Sarpanches We must offer benefits like health insurance and legal aid, even after their tenure ends.
Performance-Based Rewards Villages and leaders who show results in development and transparency should be recognized and incentivized.
Support for Women Sarpanches Female leaders need mentorship and strong local support systems to thrive.
Transparent Monitoring Digital dashboards should allow every citizen to see how village funds are being used.
I’ve always believed that real development in Punjab will begin from the bottom up. The road to a strong, inclusive, and progressive Punjab runs through our villages. And every village needs a strong Sarpanch, someone who leads with integrity, courage, and vision.
Through media, policy, public service, and business, I will continue to stand with our Panchayats, empowering them to be the change-makers our state deserves.
Karun KauraPresident, Sarpanch Union Punjab
Founder - Om Foundation