In a significant boost to digital empowerment at the grassroots level, India’s Ministry of Panchayati Raj is teaming up with UNICEF to roll out ‘Pancham’, an advanced chat-based assistant designed exclusively for panchayats. This Saturday’s announcement positions the chatbot as a game-changer for delivering real-time assistance and vital information to rural local bodies.
Transitioning from traditional methods to tech-savvy solutions, ‘Pancham’ will facilitate seamless interactions, ensuring panchayat members stay informed on schemes, policies, and best practices. This collaboration reflects a shared vision for a tech-enabled rural India.
Building excitement ahead of Republic Day, a special award ceremony is planned for Sunday. It will celebrate approximately 240 nominated panchayat leaders who have excelled in implementing key central schemes. These honorees, comprising sarpanchs, mukhiyas, and higher-level panchayat officials, earn invitations to the 2026 Republic Day Parade as VIPs.
Professor SP Singh Baghel, Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, will lead the felicitation. The occasion will also unveil important releases: the latest Gramodya Sankalp issue, 2025 PRI data compilation, expert reports on service delivery at panchayat levels, and PESA ranking metrics. These resources will guide future policy and performance enhancements.
The ministry’s outreach extends to including spouses, creating a contingent of about 450 guests. Their itinerary features a visit to the Prime Ministers’ Museum on January 25, offering insights into national governance evolution, capped by viewing the ministry’s thematic float on ‘SwaMithva Yojana’ – championing self-reliant panchayats for a stronger nation.
As the nation gears up for celebrations, President Droupadi Murmu’s address on Republic Day eve promises to inspire. Airing at 7 PM via AIR and DD, it will resonate in Hindi and English, setting the tone for unity and progress.