Development Stanting Committee
Development Standing Committee
The Development Standing Committee is one of the most important committees in Local Self-Government Institutions (LSGIs) in Kerala, including Grama Panchayats, Block Panchayats, and District Panchayats. It plays a leading role in the development of production sectors and infrastructure.
The committee has a crucial role in preparing the Panchayat's Annual Plans and in consolidating and implementing development needs received from the Gram Sabhas. Its major responsibilities and structure are described below.
Major Responsibilities and Areas of Function
1. Agriculture and Animal Husbandry
- Formulate projects to promote paddy cultivation, vegetable farming, and other agricultural activities, and distribute seeds and fertilizers to farmers at subsidised rates.
- Implement animal husbandry projects such as dairy development, poultry farming, and goat rearing.
- Monitor the functioning of Veterinary Hospitals and Krishi Bhavans.
2. Infrastructure Development
- Plan the construction, tarring, and re-tarring of Panchayat roads, as well as the construction of bridges and culverts.
- Monitor the installation and maintenance of street lights.
- Prepare projects for the construction, renovation, and improvement of public buildings such as offices, halls, and markets.
3. Soil and Water Conservation and Minor Irrigation
- Renovate streams and ponds and undertake measures to protect their banks.
- Develop systems to supply water to agricultural lands through small-scale irrigation projects.
- Construct rainwater harvesting structures and check dams.
4. Small-Scale Industries and Employment Generation
- Provide the necessary technical and financial assistance for establishing small-scale enterprises and cottage industries at the local level.
- Promote traditional industries such as coir production, handloom, pottery, and other traditional occupations.
Composition of the Committee
Members
The committee consists of 3 to 5 elected Ward Members, depending on the size of the Panchayat, selected from among the members of the Panchayat governing body through the system of proportional representation.
Chairperson
The members of the committee elect one among themselves as the Chairperson of the Development Standing Committee. Senior members of the Panchayat are generally considered for this position.
Convenor / Implementing Officer
Usually, the Assistant Engineer (AE) or Agricultural Officer (AO) of the Panchayat serves as the Implementing Officer or Convenor of the committee.