Empowering Rural Democracy in the Bay Islands: Investigating the Role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) in South Andaman District

Abstract

This paper aims to analyse the issues and challenges faced by Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in the Bay Islands, with a specific focus on the Andaman District. The objectives of the study include understanding the structural, administrative, and fiscal complexities encountered by PRIs, examining the adequacy of budgetary allocations, assessing the state of infrastructure and social schemes, and exploring the influence of linguistic dynamics on local politics. The present study employs a methodology that entails a thorough examination of extant literature, official reports, and pertinent data sources to acquire insights into the predicaments and obstacles encountered by Public Rural Institutions (PRIs) in the Bay Islands. The research paper concludes that PRIs in the Bay Islands encounter several critical challenges, such as inadequate budgetary allocations, infrastructure etc. which hamper their financial and functional autonomy. Overall, this research paper provides insights into the issues and challenges faced by PRIs in the Bay Islands and offers recommendations for addressing these challenges to strengthen local self-administration and promote inclusive and participatory governance.