Explanation: A CSS of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) was approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2018 for implementation from FY19 to FY22 with the primary aim of strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for achieving SDG’s with the main thrust on convergence with Mission Antyodaya and emphasis on strengthening PRI’s in the 117 Aspirational Districts.

• The scheme extends to all states and UTs including non-Part IX of the Constitution of India areas where Panchayats do not exist.
• The major focus of the scheme of RGSA was Capacity Building and Training (CB&T) to empower PRIs and to prepare convergent Plans at the respective level of Panchayats.
• Under the Scheme, not only around 31 lakh elected representatives (ERs) have been capacitated through various modes of training but also functionaries and other stakeholders of Panchayats including SHG members have been provided training for better SHG-PRIs convergence at the grassroots level to create an ecosystem to prepare inclusive village poverty reduction plan.

Source: Economic Survey 2023