Kundal Gram Panchayat, situated in Sangli district, Maharashtra, garnered national recognition in 2023 when it received the prestigious Clean and Green Panchayat Award from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. Under the leadership of Mr. Jayraj Jagannath Howal, the Sarpanch, and Mr. Kiran Mahadev, the Deputy Sarpanch, the village has established itself as a benchmark in rural water management, sustainability, and innovative community-driven initiatives. This case study explores the key strengths, achievements, and future vision of Kundal Gram Panchayat. It is based on a discussion with Mr. Kiran Mahadev, who emphasized the village’s priorities and accomplishments, which have collectively contributed to its success.
Key Strengths and Achievements
(i)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Focus on Sanitation and Infrastructure
Kundal Gram Panchayat has prioritized sanitation and cleanliness through initiatives such as wastewater collection for agricultural reuse, the provision of clean drinking water, and the development of critical infrastructure, including educational institutions and healthcare facilities.
(ii)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Effective Financial Planning
The Panchayat has demonstrated proactive financial management by increasing its Own Source Revenue (OSR) through local tax collection and community contributions. Initiatives like Jan Suvidha and Naagrik Suvidha serve as pillars of financial stability while fostering development.
(iii)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Corporate and Government Support
The Panchayat has effectively leveraged Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds from local entities such as Kirloskar Brothers Limited and the state-established Sugar Factory. These organizations have supported initiatives like afforestation projects, healthcare facilities, and educational advancements, including the installation of digital projectors in village schools.
(iv)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Recognition and Impact
The Clean and Green Panchayat Award highlights Panchayat’s success in implementing sustainable practices and fostering community-led innovation, setting an example for rural governance across the country.
Future Vision and Strategic Goals
Despite its achievements, Kundal Gram Panchayat continues to strive for further development, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, and technological advancement.
(i)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Renewable Energy and Resource Management
The Panchayat plans to reduce electricity consumption by increasing the use of solar-powered LED bulbs. Additionally, it aims to enhance water supply to households and expand the village’s green cover through the annual plantation of 5,000–10,000 trees.
(ii)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Waste Management and Biogas Production
Building on its solid waste management initiatives, the Panchayat intends to develop biogas production facilities, utilizing organic waste to create renewable energy.
(iii)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Digital Connectivity and Community Training
The Panchayat has embraced digital tools to connect with residents and intends to further improve digital communication. Regular training programs for Panchayati Raj members, supported by the government and the Kundal Academy of Development, Administration, and Management, ensure continuous capacity building.
(iv)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Community Participation
The concept of “Freedom Fighters,” where residents actively contribute to committees on education, health, and sanitation, has been instrumental in fostering community involvement. Currently, 110 freedom fighters collaborate with Panchayat to drive development projects.
(v)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Collaborative Development
The Panchayat emphasizes the importance of coordination between rural and urban governance bodies to achieve integrated development and shared progress.
Conclusion
Kundal Gram Panchayat represents a pioneering approach to rural governance, blending community-driven initiatives with visionary leadership. Its holistic focus on sustainability, innovation, and integrated development has not only earned national acclaim but also serves as a source of inspiration for other villages striving to create a brighter future. As India moves toward greater urbanization, Kundal offers a blueprint for harmonious rural-urban collaboration and progress.