J&K celebrates National Panchayati Raj Day

Srinagar, Apr 24: Jammu and Kashmir Thursday joined the rest of the nation in commemorating the National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD) 2025 with unprecedented enthusiasm and overwhelming public participation.
More than one lakh people from across 4,291 Gram Panchayats took part in the vibrant programmes held at the Panchayat, Block and District level, reaffirming the Union Territory’s commitment to grassroots democracy and community driven development.
The national highlight was a historic event at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat in Bihar’s Madhubani district, presided over by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.
Addressing the nation, the Prime Minister called for a minute of silence in memory of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, offering prayers and condolences to the bereaved families.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister also presented the National Panchayat Awards, recognizing best-performing Panchayats from across the country for their excellence in governance and development.
The NPRD 2025 observance also commemorated the continued legacy of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, which institutionalized Panchayati Raj in India and empowered local self-governance at the village level.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the celebrations focused on promoting transparency, accountability and citizen participation. Gram Sabhas were held across the UT, with a special focus on Water Management & Conservation, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and awareness campaigns under Nasha Mukt Bharat to address drug addiction.
In a strong show of unity, districts across the UT passed unanimous resolutions at District, Block and Panchayat level condemning the heinous and cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The resolutions reflected the collective grief, outrage and unwavering resolve of the people to stand against terrorism.
A live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address was arranged in Gram Panchayats across Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring wide viewership and participation.
Director, Panchayati Raj, J&K, Sham Lal, lauded the efforts of all districts in organizing special Gram Sabhas and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment towards strengthening grassroots democracy. “We are committed to the development of all Panchayats and will ensure that the benefits of democracy reach every corner,” he asserted.
On the National Panchayati Raj Day, PM Modi presented National Panchayat Awards, recognizing and incentivizing best-performing Panchayats.