New Delhi, April 24: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said challenges posed by Maoists could be countered by empowering rural poor and marginalised sections through Panchayati Raj Institutions.
“We should pay special attention to ensure that PRIs function effectively in remote and backward areas, which include tribal areas. This will help us in tackling the challenges such as the Maoist menace,” he said inaugurating a conference to celebrate the National Panchayati Raj Day.
Singh said participation of Panchayats in various development programmes was essential as “they understand the local needs.”
“Panchayats not only make direct participation possible for the marginalised section of society in governance, but also play an important role in ensuring transparency and accountability in the functioning of government institutions and officials,” he added.
–PTI