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Any limitation on numbers of data points or indicators or targets should not be imposed on GPs. What they need is the
creating of an enabling environment that provides freedom and scope to work on their constitutionally mandated 29
subjects. The institutionalisation of the PDI with all its oceanic depth and analytical vastness is necessary for
strengthening decentralised governance with the PRIs. It will also provide performance assessment, generate positive

competition among Panchayats, greater accountability and transparency at all levels of government. PDI can become an
important tool for advocacy and lobbying by local communities for their rights improving administrative and governance
systems. When Gram Panchayats are given the SDG wheel in their hands, they will steer it a speed that we as outside of
the Gram Panchayat cannot imagine. We doubt their ability based on our limitation as individuals in our work scenario,
schemes we implement and are responsible for. But the Gram Panchayat is not in doubt, as it affects their lives and for
them the limitation is only to the extent of devolution of powers, an enabling environment and sharing of information.

Let not the challenges in bringing PDI to use, limit its scope and potential. Challenges open the door to opportunity.
Where would we be without challenges to go beyond, to persevere and overcome?

This present Report on the PDI is just at its beginning of the dynamic journey to achieving the Sustainable Development
Goals in rural India.

The Proof of Concept is the fruit of the labour of the Team Maharashtra and what it shows is that this is possible and of
great value. My greatest appreciation to Dr. Mallinath Kalshetti, Member of the PDI committee and his Team of Gram
Sevaks, Panchayat Presidents, and Extension Officers. Again, proves the capacities in the GPs and at grassroot levels.

Ms. Nidhi Gupta, Consultant-Data and Technology, National PMU, The Nudge institute for the invaluable work in
taking the data collected and providing us the results and analysis. The dedication of Ms. Piyali Roy Chowdhury,
Consultant, MoPR added great value to the Report.

My sincere thanks to Shri Sunil Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India, for having been so
patient and supportive to enable the Committee to present this Report.

Jayashree Raghunandan
Chairperson, PDI Committee

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