Aatmanirbhar Panchayat Scheme Background: To strengthen the financial independence of Panchayats by encouraging them to undertake sustainable and income-generating projects, the Ministry of Panchayat Raj has launched the 'Aatmanirbhar Panchayat Scheme'. About the Scheme The Atmanirbhar Panchayat Scheme is a national level challenge initiative launched by the Ministry of Panchayat Raj. The scheme supports eligible Gram Panchayats and Block Panchayats in planning and implementing financially sustainable projects that are self-revenue generating. The scheme is implemented as part of the 'Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan'. Key Features Eligibility A Gram Panchayat should have a minimum own revenue of ₹50 lakhs. A Block Panchayat should have a minimum own revenue of ₹1 crore. The participating Panchayats should have at least three years remaining in their term. Approval of Gram Sabha Project proposals should include documentary evidence of approval of Gram Sabha.Proposals are not allowed to be submitted without the written approval of Gram Sabha. Project Allocation: First Year: Up to 50 project proposals will be selected from across the country. Years 2, 3 and 4: Up to 100 proposals will be accepted each year. Each state can submit a maximum of 10 proposals in the first year and 20 proposals annually from years 2 to 4. Support for winners: Selected Panchayats will be provided with comprehensive technical support including planning, design and implementation to ensure successful operation and long-term financial sustainability of the project. NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem) Context: The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment celebrated the 3rd 'NAMASTE' Day on July 14, 2023, to mark the completion of three years since the launch of the 'National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem' scheme. About NAMASTE Scheme NAMASTE (National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem) is a government scheme aimed at improving the safety, health and dignity of sewer…
