Gaya/Patna:Two elected representatives from Gaya district will be honoured at the national Panchayati Raj Day awards ceremony at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Gaya Zila Parishad Chairperson Naina Kumari will be recognised for the district council’s work in rural development and public welfare. Bikopur Panchayat Mukhiya Mehre Angez Khanam has also been selected for a National Panchayat Award. Officials said Khanam is the only mukhiya from Gaya district selected for the national honour this year.
Gaya Zila Parishad recognised for development work
Gaya Zila Parishad has been chosen for a national award in recognition of its initiatives in rural infrastructure and public services.
Naina Kumari said the recognition reflects the collective efforts of elected representatives, officials and staff members associated with the district council.
According to the chairperson, key projects undertaken by the Zila Parishad include rural road construction, drainage systems, cremation ground development, installation of high-mast and street lights, renovation of community buildings, and the construction of libraries and passenger shelters.
She said the award would encourage the council to continue prioritising transparency and development-focused governance.
The national recognition would serve as motivation to continue strengthening rural infrastructure and public services across the district.
Bikopur Panchayat’s development initiatives
Located about 90 kilometres from Gaya district headquarters, Bikopur Panchayat comprises around 19 villages, including Bikopur, Kothi, Dharera, Hayat Chak and Gangti.
Khanam entered local politics in 2016 and was elected mukhiya on a platform focused on transparency and public participation. Residents say her administration has worked to improve access to public services and strengthen community engagement in governance.
Literacy campaign for elderly residents
One of the panchayat’s notable initiatives has been an adult literacy campaign targeting elderly residents with little or no formal education.
According to panchayat officials, more than 200 senior citizens have become literate through the community-led programme known as “Dada-Dadi, Nani Padho Abhiyan”. The initiative encouraged family members to help older relatives learn basic reading and writing skills.
Khanam said awareness campaigns were conducted alongside development projects to promote citizen participation and accountability.
Focus on healthcare and public services
The panchayat has also introduced a free ambulance service for residents travelling to government health facilities.
Mukhiya representative Riyasat Nawaz Khan said the service is supported through private funding, including operational expenses and staff salaries.
The panchayat office has been upgraded with facilities such as CCTV surveillance, a meeting hall, drinking water systems and visitor seating. Government services are also available through an operational RTPS counter, enabling residents to obtain certificates and other documents locally.
Skill development programmes for youth
Khanam said the panchayat has organised computer training and vocational skill programmes aimed at improving employment opportunities for young people.
According to panchayat officials, several trainees have secured jobs in Gaya and other cities after completing these programmes. The panchayat has also conducted livelihood and awareness initiatives focused on women’s empowerment.
The national awards ceremony at Bharat Mandapam will bring together representatives from across the country and highlight examples of local governance and rural development initiatives.
