Gummagol (Dharwad dist), April 24, 2012, DHNS :
Gummagol village in Navalgund taluk of Dharwad district is drought-hit. But that has not deterred it from ensuring better amenities for its people.
Located about 32 km from Dharwad, the village has recorded 100 per cent tax collection, boasts of toilets in 95 per cent of the households, has solar lights and a well-maintained garbage collection system.
The display boards in the village speak of the extent of decentralisation. The Gram Panchayat has constituted several sub-committees - for water, amenities, social justice, sanitation, etc - to ensure smooth administration. Each committee has been discharging its duties efficiently.
Garbage bins have been placed at designated places and villagers dispose of waste only in those bins. The Panchayat has purchased a vehicle to transport garbage on a daily basis. Five of the 11 members of the Panchayat are women.
Tax collection
The Panchayat has made history by registering 100 percent tax collection since 2006-07. In 2007-08, the Panchayat was conferred with the ‘Rajata Nairmalya’ award for ensuring total sanitation in the village. The award carried a cash prize of Rs four lakh.
GP president Basavaraj Ereshanavar, who received the award, told Deccan Herald from New Delhi that transparent administration was the secret behind their success.
“Unity among the members is behind the successful implementation of total sanitation in the village, installation of waste disposal unit and ensuring clean drinking water supply to all.” Dharwad ZP Chief
Executive Officer P A Meghannavar said dedicated and committed elected representatives and active participation of the people had made Gummagol a model Gram Panchayat. |