Srinagar, April 25, 2025: Jammu and Kashmir celebrated National Panchayati Raj Day (NPRD) 2025 with unprecedented zeal, as over one lakh people from 4,291 Gram Panchayats participated in dynamic programs across the Union Territory, reinforcing their commitment to grassroots democracy. Despite the recent tragedy of the Pahalgam terror attack, the events at Panchayat, Block, and District levels showcased the region’s unwavering dedication to community-driven development and resilience.
The national spotlight was on a landmark event at Lohna Uttar Gram Panchayat in Madhubani, Bihar, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation. Modi began his speech with a heartfelt minute of silence for the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, offering condolences to the grieving families. He also presented the prestigious National Panchayat Awards, honoring top-performing Panchayats for their exemplary work in governance and sustainable development.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the NPRD celebrations centered on fostering transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation. Gram Sabhas were held across the Union Territory, with discussions focusing on Water Management & Conservation, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and awareness drives under the Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign to tackle drug addiction. These initiatives highlighted the critical role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in addressing local needs and building self-reliant communities.
In a stirring display of solidarity, districts across Jammu and Kashmir adopted unanimous resolutions condemning the “cowardly” Pahalgam terror attack, attributed to The Resistance Front, a Lashkar-e-Taiba affiliate. These resolutions, passed at District, Block, and Panchayat levels, expressed collective sorrow, outrage, and a firm resolve to stand united against terrorism, reflecting the spirit of a region determined to uphold peace.
To ensure broad participation, a live telecast of the Prime Minister’s address was arranged in Gram Panchayats throughout Jammu and Kashmir, drawing significant viewership. Sham Lal, Director of Panchayati Raj, J&K, commended the districts for their meticulous organization of Gram Sabhas and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to empowering local governance. “Our goal is to strengthen every Panchayat, ensuring the fruits of democracy reach all,” Lal declared.
The NPRD 2025 observance also celebrated the legacy of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which formalized the Panchayati Raj system, empowering villages with self-governance. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the transformative impact of PRIs, describing them as the backbone of India’s rural progress and the key to achieving “Gram Uday Se Bharat Uday” (Village Progress to National Progress).
The National Panchayat Awards recognised outstanding contributions in areas like poverty alleviation, innovation, and environmental sustainability, inspiring Panchayats nationwide. In Jammu and Kashmir, the focus on WASH and anti-drug campaigns during Gram Sabhas aligned with the vision of creating healthier, more resilient villages.