Patna: Bihar is moving to transform Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans into multi-purpose service centres aimed at delivering a wide range of government and public amenities closer to rural residents.
Under the initiative, facilities such as post offices, banking services, libraries, Right to Public Services (RTPS) centres, Aadhaar service centres and Sudha milk parlours are planned to operate from the same premises. The move is intended to improve access to essential services and reduce travel for villagers.
Construction and Operations Progress
Construction of Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans is progressing across several Panchayats in the state. While many buildings have already become operational, work is continuing in other locations.
Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans in Kasimpur, Muradpur and Kharka Telwa Panchayats have started functioning, while construction is underway in Chandrayan, Mohanpur and Sattaur Panchayats.
Officials say the facilities are being designed to serve as local administrative and public service hubs, allowing residents to access multiple services at a single location.
Post Offices Planned Inside Panchayat Buildings
As part of the initiative, the Department of Posts has begun preparations to establish post offices within Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans.
The Chief Postmaster General has written to the Panchayati Raj Department seeking details of operational Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans where postal services can be introduced. Following the request, district authorities have been directed to prepare and submit lists of functioning buildings that can accommodate post office operations.
Rent Agreement Finalised
The rental arrangement for operating post offices within Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans has also been finalised.
Under the agreement, the Department of Posts will pay a monthly rent of Rs 500 to the respective Gram Panchayat for each post office operating from a Panchayat Sarkar Bhavan. The amount will be deposited directly into the Panchayat’s bank account.
Services Expected to Begin Soon
According to officials, postal services are expected to commence shortly at Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans in Kasimpur, Kharka Telwa and Muradpur Panchayats.
Each post office will function from a dedicated room within the building. Separate spaces are also planned for libraries, Aadhaar service centres and other public utility services.
Benefits for Rural Residents
The expansion of services within Panchayat Sarkar Bhavans is expected to improve convenience for villagers by bringing essential facilities closer to their homes.
Residents will be able to access postal services, savings schemes, parcel dispatch facilities and other citizen services locally, reducing the need for frequent visits to district towns or block headquarters. Officials believe the initiative will help save both time and travel costs for rural households while strengthening service delivery at the Panchayat level.
