Jayan, K N; Dr.Arunachalam, P(Cochin University of Science & Technology, 2004)
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Abstract:
The study has wider policy implications as it identifies the possible variables which
influence the sustainability of participatory productive sector projects. The method which is
developed to study the sustainability of projects under People’s Planning in Chempu
Panchayat could be used for studying the same in other panchayats also. Unlike the case of
the standard features of sustainability identified, the independent variables vary according to
the nature of the project. Hence, this needs to be modified accordingly while applying the
method in a dissimilar domain. Selection of a single panchayat for the present study is
relevant on the basis of a common package of inputs for decentralised planning which is
forwarded by the State Planning Board respectively for the three-tier panchayat system in
Kerala. The dynamic filed realities could be brought out in view of a comprehensive
planning approach through an in depth study of specific cases.The assessment of the nature and pattern of productive sector projects in the selected
Village Panchayat puts the projects under close scrutiny. The analysis has depended largely
on secondary sources of information, especially from panchayat level plan documents, and
also on the primary information obtained using direct observation and on-site inspection of
project sites. An analysis of the nature and pattem of productive sector projects is important
as it gives all necessary information regarding follow-up, monitoring/evaluation and even
termination of a particular project. It has also revealed the tendencies of including
infrastructure and service sector projects under ‘productive’ category, especially for
maintaining the stipulated ratio (40:30:30) of grant-in-aid distribution. The study regarding
the allocation and expenditure pattern of plan funds is vital in policy level as it reveals the
under-noticed allocation and expenditure pattern of plan funds other than grant-in-aid. One
major limitation of the study has been the limited availability of secondary data, especially regarding project-wise expenditure and monitoring/evaluation reports of various project
committees.
Description:
Department of Applied Economics, Cochin
University of Science and Technology.