In a significant effort to promote greater devolution to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) will organize a One-Day Finance Commissions Conclave – Devolution to Development at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, on November 14th, 2024. The Conclave, to be held under the leadership of Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, will bring together key stakeholders to discuss and enhance the role of State Finance Commissions (SFCs) in the effective allocation of funds to Rural Local Bodies (RLBs). The Conclave aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among the various stakeholders involved in local governance and financial devolution. The event will feature participation from the Members of the 16th Finance Commission, Senior Officials from the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and eminent experts from reputed academic and relevant institutions. Chairpersons of nine State Finance Commissions – from Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh – are expected to share their experiences and insights on the functioning of SFCs with the Finance Departments of the States that have not yet established SFCs.

Key Sessions and Discussions:

The Conclave will feature four key sessions focused on strengthening financial governance in local bodies, with a particular emphasis on the effectiveness of SFCs:

1. Inaugural Session – Opening addresses by the Secretaries of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Urban & Housing Affairs, along with a keynote address by Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission. JS, MoPR to make a presentation.
2. Session I: Local Body Grants – This session will focus on the challenges and opportunities associated with Tied versus Untied Grants, the online availability and audit of local body accounts, and issues related to grant utilization.
3. Session II: Panchayat Finances – This session will discuss the devolution of funds and functions, along with strategies for increasing revenue sources for Panchayats.
4. Closing Session – Address by the Secretary, Department of Expenditure and the Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission.  

Key Objectives of the Conclave

This Conclave would provide an opportunity to highlight and address the structural and operational needs of SFCs, fostering a stronger, more responsive framework that can directly contribute to sustainable development at the grassroots. Discussions will focus on ensuring timely constitution, reporting and implementation of SFC recommendations, promoting effective resource allocation, and fostering collaboration among all stakeholders to support grassroots development.

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