Name: Rangaswamy L C & Ramananda M S
Country: India

Year: 2025
Volume: Volume No: 12, Issue No: 2, Year: 2025 (Special Issue-2)
Page Number: 107-110
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17722414

ABSTRACT
The Panchayat Raj system in India represents a landmark in democratic decentralization,
aimed at empowering rural communities and ensuring participatory development. Karnataka,
known for its progressive governance reforms, has been a pioneering state in implementing
the Panchayat Raj system since the 1980s. This study examines the economic role and
performance of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in promoting rural development in
Karnataka, with special reference to Mandya district. Using both primary and secondary data,
the research analyzes the impact of PRIs on economic growth, infrastructure development,
and livelihood improvement. The findings reveal that PRIs have significantly contributed to
rural transformation through effective implementation of schemes like MGNREGA, PMAY,
and NRLM. However, challenges such as limited financial autonomy, political interference,
and capacity constraints persist. Strengthening fiscal devolution, capacity building, and
people’s participation is essential for realizing the full potential of grassroots democracy in
Karnataka.
Keywords: Panchayat Raj Institutions, Rural Development, Decentralization, Economic
Growth, Mandya District, Karnataka.