NEWS

• On 14th August 2025, Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh Lalan and his deputy SP Singh Baghel launched ‘SabhaSaar’, an AI-powered governance tool, in Tripura and later extended it nationwide.
• The launch coincided with Independence Day celebrations.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Features of ‘SabhaSaar’

• AI-based Documentation: Generates structured minutes of Gram Sabha meetings from video/audio recordings.
• Integration: Accessible via e-GramSwaraj login for Panchayat officials.
• Language Support: Built on Bhashini, India’s AI language platform; transcribes and translates in major Indian languages + English.
• Utility: Enhances transparency, uniformity, and instant access to meeting summaries for panchayats and rural development projects.

Link with Gram Sabhas

• Gram Sabhas must meet 4 times annually (26 Jan, 1 May, 15 Aug, 2 Oct).
• Linked with Panchayat NIRNAY portal, a real-time monitoring system ensuring meetings are scheduled, notified, and agenda shared.
• FY 2024-25: 10,000+ Gram Sabha meetings conducted via NIRNAY, especially in Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar.

Importance of Gram Sabha

• Bedrock of the Panchayati Raj System (73rd Amendment, 1993).
• April 24: Celebrated as Panchayati Raj Day.
• Presently: 2.55 lakh village panchayats, 6,742 intermediate panchayats, 665 district panchayats.

Bhashini – The Backbone

• Launched in July 2022 under the National Language Technology Mission.
• Provides AI-based real-time translation in 22 scheduled languages.
• Enhances inclusivity by bridging linguistic and digital divides.

Other Digital Initiatives

• eGramSwaraj: Planning, reporting, and asset-tracking platform.
• AuditOnline: For transparent auditing of Panchayat accounts.
• Common Service Centres (CSCs): Deliver digital services in rural areas.