On May 26, 2025, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj launched a two-day National Writeshop on the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Version 2.0 for the financial year 2023–24. This initiative aims to strengthen local governance by enabling Gram Panchayats to assess and enhance their performance in governance and service delivery. For competitive exam aspirants, this event is a key current affairs topic, reflecting India’s commitment to sustainable development and Viksit Bharat.
Transforming Panchayat Governance
A Tool for Transparent and Accountable Governance
Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, highlighted the transformational potential of PAI 2.0, stating, “When we record accurate data, we do not merely count; we contribute to the nation’s transformation.” The PAI is more than a data collection tool—it institutionalizes transparent, accountable, and performance-based governance at the Panchayat level. Bharadwaj urged functionaries to ensure accurate data entry on the PAI portal 2.0, which provides a comprehensive view of holistic development. He also encouraged Gram Panchayats to display their PAI scorecards at GP Bhawans to foster public participation and local accountability.
Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
A Data-Driven Approach to Progress
Saurabh Garg, Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), praised PAI 2.0 for its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He noted that India’s SDG data availability has improved from 55% to 95% over the past five years, with PAI 2.0 embodying the principle of “Measure what we treasure and treasure what we measure.” The framework enhances standardization, harmonization, and visualization, advancing India’s goal of inclusive, outcome-oriented governance. Garg emphasized that PAI 2.0 supports Viksit Bharat through a bottom-up participatory approach.
Key Figures and Their Contributions
| Name | Position | Key Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Vivek Bharadwaj | Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj | PAI is a mechanism for transparent and accountable governance. |
| Saurabh Garg | Secretary, MoSPI | PAI 2.0 aligns with SDGs and supports inclusive governance. |
| Rajib Kumar Sen | Senior Advisor, NITI Aayog | PAI 2.0 connects local efforts to global commitments. |
| Sushil Kumar Lohani | Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj | PAI 2.0 promotes healthy competition and continuous improvement. |
Bridging Local and Global Goals
A Framework for Holistic Development
Rajib Kumar Sen, Senior Advisor at NITI Aayog, described PAI 2.0 as a “powerful bridge” linking local efforts to national and global commitments. It complements the SDG India Index and prepares India for future Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) at global forums. Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, emphasized that PAI 2.0 equips Panchayats with practical tools to assess progress, identify gaps, and plan effectively, fostering a culture of healthy competition and continuous improvement.
Key Highlights of the National Writeshop on PAI 2.0
- Event Date: Commenced on May 26, 2025
- Objective: Strengthen Panchayat governance through data-driven assessment and performance improvement.
- Key Figures: Vivek Bharadwaj, Saurabh Garg, Rajib Kumar Sen, Sushil Kumar Lohani.
- Significance: Aligns with SDGs, promotes transparency, accountability, and Viksit Bharat through participatory governance.
- Features: PAI 2.0 portal for accurate data entry, public display of scorecards at GP Bhawans.
- Impact: Enhances India’s SDG data availability (from 55% to 95%) and supports global commitments.