Children’s special gram sabha is held in Managalli village of Chamarajanagar district on 24th December. Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
A children’s special Gram Sabha was held at Managalli Gram Panchayat in Chamarajanagar district of Hanur taluk on December 24 and provided a platform for children to present their demands and suggestions to the authorities.
Described as a model initiative, the Gram sabha was practically launched by Priyank Kharg, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, who also conducted a video interaction with the children.
The gram sabha was organized by the Chamarajanagar Zilla Panchayat and the Ministry of Rural Development and Panchayat Raj.
The children highlighted several issues, including the need for an ‘Akshara Dasoha’ (mid-day meal) room, canteen, playground, sports equipment sets, toilets, drinking water and prevention of sewage draining in front of the school. They also promoted the improvement of village roads and the solution to problems caused by game intrusion.
Mr. Kharge said that the issues and demands raised by the children in the gram sabha should be taken seriously and immediate action must be taken in this regard.
He said immediate proposals should be made for the road works, besides allotment of canteen and separate room for Akshar Dasoh. He also promised to provide sports equipment and other facilities through corporate social responsibility (CSR) promotion.
The minister also asked the children about their aspirations and what other equipment they need for better learning. Students shared their ambitions to become doctors, deputy commissioners and IAS officers. Advising them to study diligently, Mr. Kharge pointed out that the Deputy District Commissioner, Zilla Panchayat CEO and Superintendent of Police are all women who serve as sources of inspiration.
Mr. Kharge also issued instructions to keep a list of books useful for competitive examinations in the school libraries.
MR Manjunath, Hanur MLA, who inaugurated the Children’s Gram Sabha, said programs like this act as spaces where children can air their demands. Such efforts will promote transparency, accountability and rural development, he added.
Chamarajanagar Zilla Panchayat CEO Mona Roat delivered the inaugural address while Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Nag, Superintendent of Police BT Kavitha and senior state officers participated in the program virtually.
Managalli Gram Panchayat president Somashekar presided over the program while the gram sabha proceedings were telecast live on YouTube.
Published – 25 Dec 2025 19:07 IST
