Become centre for creating youth enthusiastic about rural development, university told

The organization of a special lecture on Gandhian Thought by the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University in Gadag is far more than a mere academic event; it signifies a conscious effort to rekindle the foundational principles of rural development and decentralized governance in India. This initiative is particularly relevant in the context of India's ongoing pursuit of inclusive growth and sustainable development, deeply rooted in the vision articulated by Mahatma Gandhi.

**Background Context and Historical Roots:**

Independent India inherited a vast rural landscape grappling with poverty, illiteracy, and inadequate infrastructure. Mahatma Gandhi, the 'Father of the Nation,' envisioned a self-reliant India built upon 'Gram Swaraj' (village self-rule), where villages would be self-sufficient republics managing their own affairs. This philosophy emphasized local self-governance, economic self-sufficiency, and social harmony through principles like Sarvodaya (welfare of all) and Antyodaya (upliftment of the last person). Post-independence, while the initial focus was on centralized planning, the spirit of decentralization gradually gained traction. The Community Development Programme in 1952 and subsequent committees like the Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) laid the groundwork for a structured approach to rural development. However, it was the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts of 1992 that truly institutionalized Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Urban Local Bodies, giving constitutional sanctity to local self-governance. The establishment of universities like the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University in Gadag reflects a contemporary commitment to formalizing and promoting education, research, and training in these crucial areas, ensuring that the Gandhian ideals remain central to modern development strategies.

**What Transpired and Key Stakeholders:**

The specific event involved a special lecture on Gandhian Thought, delivered at the university's campus in Gadag. This act serves a dual purpose: educating current and future generations about the enduring relevance of Gandhi's philosophy and reaffirming the university's commitment to its core mandate. The primary **stakeholders** in this event and the broader mission are:

1. **Mahatma Gandhi Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University:** As the organizer, it acts as a knowledge hub, responsible for curriculum development, research, and outreach programs aimed at strengthening rural India and PRIs. Its very existence underscores the academic and practical importance of rural studies.

2. **Students and Youth:** They are the direct beneficiaries and, more importantly, the future torchbearers of rural development initiatives. By instilling enthusiasm and knowledge in them, the university aims to create a cadre of informed and motivated individuals who will drive grassroots change.

3. **Academicians and Experts:** These individuals deliver the lectures, conduct research, and shape the intellectual discourse around rural development, Gandhian principles, and local governance.

4. **State Government (Karnataka):** Having established and supported the university, the state government is a crucial stakeholder, demonstrating its commitment to decentralized governance and rural upliftment in line with national policies.

5. **Ministry of Rural Development & Ministry of Panchayati Raj (Government of India):** These central ministries provide the overarching policy framework and funding for rural development and local governance initiatives, with which the university's work implicitly aligns.

**Significance for India and Future Implications:**

This event carries profound significance for India. Firstly, it underscores the **continued relevance of Gandhian principles** in addressing contemporary challenges such as poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and lack of inclusive growth. Gandhi's emphasis on local solutions, sustainable practices, and community participation offers a powerful antidote to top-down approaches.

Secondly, it is vital for **strengthening Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs)**. Despite the 73rd Amendment, PRIs often face challenges related to capacity building, financial autonomy, and effective participation. Universities focusing on rural development can provide the necessary intellectual and human capital to empower these institutions, ensuring they truly become vehicles of local self-governance as envisioned by Article 40 of the Constitution (Directive Principle of State Policy).

Thirdly, by aiming to create youth