Bajali: Assam’s Bajali Development Block was conferred the National Panchayat Award under the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Sashaktikaran Puraskar (DDUPSP) in 2022, marking a milestone in grassroots governance and rural development.
The national recognition was awarded in acknowledgment of the block’s performance in implementing government schemes, promoting transparency, and strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions. As part of the award, Bajali Development Block received a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh.
To ensure the proper and effective utilisation of the National Panchayat Award (NPA) funds, the amount was converged with the Untied Component of the 15th Finance Commission Grant for 2023–24 of the Anchalik Panchayat.
As the tenure of the Anchalik Panchayat body had concluded, the Untied Component of the 15th Finance Commission Grant, traditionally utilised by the Anchalik Panchayat body, was merged with the awarded amount. This convergence enabled the proper utilisation of both funds to complete the construction of the new office building of Bajali Development Block.
The combined funds were utilised to complete the office building, contributing to institutional strengthening and administrative efficiency. The initiative reflects financial planning and a structured approach to infrastructure development.
The award brings national recognition to Bajali and serves as a reference point for other development blocks in the state. It reflects the block’s focus on transparency, accountability, and rural development.
Chandan Bazbaruah, BDO of Bajali Development Block, said, “The award reflects the efforts of Panchayat representatives, officials, and residents of Bajali. The funds have been utilised for strengthening administrative infrastructure, and we remain focused on transparent and effective grassroots governance.”
Assam Minister of Panchayat and Rural Development, Ranjeet Kumar Dass, inaugurated the new office building on February 20, 2026. On the occasion, he urged other blocks to undertake similar initiatives for public benefit.