Governance

Overview
Community Organizations

While Koraput tribals have the Constitutional right to independent governance and to implement development programs, it is not reflected in practice.

Their Panchayat Raj Institutions function poorly and lack the information and political power to make changes. We motivate adult villagers to participate at all levels of self government, take accountability for their communities, access information on government schemes, function transparently, and become self-reliant in true spirit.

Given the fact that the Constitution of India reserves the head of the panchayat instiutions exclusively to tribals, and one third of the seats to women, there is a huge opportunity to strengthen these self governments so they can effectively advocate for their communities, customs and culture.

We work in 37 panchayats spread over 6 blocks, addressing issues of tribals like displacement, land alienation and forest rights through community organizations.