BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER The village planning and development process described in this Manual is REAL. It has been based on the successful experiences of Panchayats in various parts of the country. The process is also made fairly SIMPLE, being broken down to the common key steps taken by these successful Panchayats. The outcomes are also real, substantial and have completely transformed life and conditions in these villages. With a little systematic effort and by bringing people together, YOU can also achieve the same in your village. As discussed throughout this Manual, three factors underlie the success of these efforts. First is committed, transparent and honest leadership. The second factor is the wide involvement of all people in the village planning and development process. The third is the systematic planning and implementation efforts described in this Manual – with people involved in all decision-making processes. At the core is the LEADERSHIP factor. A few key pointers towards effective leadership –
Bring together a few key people in the village as a spear-head group – elders, community leaders and other significant village members – to support your efforts.
Connect with ALL groups in the village - women, young and the elders. All caste groups. People in all areas within the village. Officers and government staff in all departments connected with village affairs. Village residents who have migrated outside for jobs, education and/or business, whenever possible.
Be open, accessible, approachable and respectful to all. No one should hesitate to share their ideas and views with you, your friends and in group or village meetings.
Be open to new ideas, whoever suggests it. All suggestions and ideas must be given due consideration.
Be open and accept views contrary to your own or to those of the people close to you. Contrary views serve to build sustainable development by bringing disagreements to the surface so that they can be resolved amicably and openly. Contrary views also open up new ideas and ways of looking at things that can be very productive and innovative.
With these simple leadership skills, and with systematic planning efforts, you can change your village!