Context: Recently, the Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj released the Report on Panchayat Development Index (PDI).

About the Index

• A computation score based on local indicators measuring the progress of Panchayats in India.

• It has been formulated by the Centre to evaluate different indicators responsible for ensuring targeted development in villages.

• The Index will be a compact statistical tool to measure and monitor development at panchayat level. 

Ranking:  The PDI ranks panchayats on the basis of scores, and categorises them into four grades.

• Those with score under 40 per cent fall in grade D, 40-60 per cent in grade C, 60-75 per cent in grade B, 75 to 90 per cent in category A, while those scoring above 90 per cent will be categorised as A+.

• Focus: Nine themes related to the Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs).

• Themes: Poverty-free, Healthy, Child-friendly, Water-sufficient, Clean and green, Self-sufficient, Socially just and secure, Well-governed, and Women-friendly.

• Aim: Promote outcome-oriented development, encourage healthy competition, and facilitate evidence-based planning for Gram Panchayats

• Ministry: Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

• Significance: Will help in Policymaking, planning, monitoring, evaluation, and learning. Identifies strengths/weaknesses, allocates resources, promotes peer learning, and facilitates citizen engagement and social accountability.

• LSDGs: Localization of Sustainable Development Goals aligns national and global goals with local context and priorities.