Ward Sabha / Gramasabha
Grama Sabha: Authority and Functions
The highest forum of direct democracy — people decide, governance reaches the people.
What is a Grama Sabha?
The Grama Sabha is a statutory, sovereign people's body constituted under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment to ensure direct public participation in local governance. According to Section 3 of the Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994, all persons whose names are included in the electoral rolls pertaining to a ward of a village panchayat are members of the Grama Sabha for that ward.
Structure and Meetings
📌 Chairperson and Convenor
The elected Grama Panchayat member of the ward acts as the chairperson of the Grama Sabha. An official appointed by the Grama Panchayat (such as Assistant Secretary / Village Extension Officer / Agricultural Officer) functions as the convenor.
📅 Frequency of Meetings
The Grama Sabha must meet at least once every three months (minimum 4 times a year). In addition, special Grama Sabhas can be convened based on the specific requirements of the members.
👥 Quorum
A quorum is met only if at least 10% of the total voters attend the meeting. The active presence of women and Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes communities must be ensured.
📢 Prior Notice
The date, time, venue, and agenda of the Grama Sabha meeting are notified to the public at least 7 days in advance through notices, announcements, and the website.
Main Duties and Powers of the Grama Sabha
1. Annual Plan Proposals
Propose basic needs and development projects such as ward roads, drinking water, agriculture, health, sanitation, and street lights on a priority basis.
2. Beneficiary Selection
Review and approve priority lists of eligible beneficiaries for housing (LIFE Mission), welfare pensions, agricultural benefits, and individual grants.
3. Social Auditing
Evaluate the progress, quality, and expenditure of development activities implemented in the ward, and ensure transparency in project execution.
4. Employment Guarantee Scheme Planning
Discuss and decide upon the annual labor budget of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the works to be undertaken in the ward.
5. Disaster Management and Prevention
Coordinate preparatory and preventive measures to be taken in the ward concerning monsoon calamities, communicable diseases, and waste eradication.
6. Anti-Narcotics / Social Vigilance
Evaluate the activities of anti-drug vigilance committees including 'Operation Thoofan' and ensure the social security of the region.
Your Participation — Panchayat's Progress!
Participating in the Grama Sabha is not just a right, but also a civic duty to take part in the development of our region. Every voter has the full right to express opinions, raise questions, and propose projects.
