Local Democracy and Welfare Entitlements: Theory, Policy and Practice

About the Programme

Local Democracy and Welfare Entitlements: Theory, Policy and Practice is a 10-day course that helps development practitioners understand how local democracy works in India, especially through Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabhas in rural areas, with a focus on South India. It brings together theory, policy, and real field experience, using good practices and new ideas to help strengthen local democracy and improve how people access welfare entitlements. The course is meant for civil society organisations already working, or wanting to work, on local democracy and welfare issues, including those working in rural, forest, and PESA areas.

Eligibility

• Must represent a Civil Society Organisation, ideally with two participants sent per organisation.
• Working knowledge of English and Hindi.
• Primarily for mid- to senior-level development practitioners with at least seven years of experience.
• Selection is based on the application and a telephonic interview.

Curriculum Overview

• Concepts, theories, and the evolution of local democracy in India.
• Structure, mandate, and working of Panchayati Raj Institutions.
• Participatory Panchayat planning, progress, and good practices.
• Rights, welfare policies, and how entitlements actually get delivered.
• Democratic governance in forests and Fifth Schedule areas.
• Case stories, examples, and innovations in local governance.
• The role of civil society organisations and community institutions in strengthening local democracy.
• Reflection on participants' own field experience, ending in a way-forward plan for their organisation.

Programme Highlights

• A participatory, adult-learning approach using classroom discussions, group work, case stories, field visits, and reflection sessions.
• Learning from real examples and innovative practices in local governance, alongside peer learning from other participants.
• A Certificate of Participation from Azim Premji University for those who complete the course and meet its requirements.
• Accommodation and food provided by the University during the course, participants cover their own travel.

Fees & Financial Aid

Exact fee amount not stated on the source page. Selected participants are informed of the fee payment process separately, with accommodation and food covered by the University and travel costs borne by participants.