What you will learn

• What the Devolution Index is and why it was created.
• What the six dimensions mean in simple terms (e.g. “Finances” = whether panchayats get funds on time and can spend without excessive approval layers).
• Where to find the report (panchayat.gov.in) and how to read the state ranking.
• How to use this in the gram sabha: what to ask the sarpanch/panchayat secretary.

Step-by-step: How to use this guide

Step 1: Find the report. Go to panchayat.gov.in and search for “Devolution Index Report 2024.” Download the summary or full report.

Step 2: Find your state’s rank. The report ranks states on six dimensions: framework, functions, finances, functionaries, capacity enhancement, accountability. Note where your state stands.

Step 3: Identify the weakest dimension. If your state ranks low on “finances,” your panchayat may face delayed funds. If low on “functionaries,” you may not have a full-time secretary.

Step 4: Draft one or two questions for the next gram sabha. Examples: “Where does our state stand in the Devolution Index? Which dimension is weak? What is the panchayat doing to get more devolution or use existing powers better?”

Step 5: Share this guide with others in the village. The more citizens ask, the more accountable local governance becomes.

Who in the Sarkar is responsible: Centre — Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR). State — State governments decide how much to devolve; State Finance Commissions recommend. Local — Panchayats (gram panchayat, panchayat samiti, zila parishad); gram sabha is where you participate.

Related content: Sign our petition to make the Index visible to every citizen; join the forum to share if your panchayat has discussed the Index; and read our explainer post on what the Devolution Index means for you.