KOZHIKODE: Prudent implementation of a slew of programmes and fund utilization fetched Arikkulam gram panchayat the ‘Swaraj trophy’, initiated by the state government for the best gram panchayat on the district-level. Effective management of the front office at the gram panchayat office is the highlight of Arikkulam’s achievement. The front office has a reading corner, complaint box, drinking water facility for people, separate help desk for women besides fully computerized office.
An exclusive ‘Shinkari Melam’ unit of women was formed last year and avenues were created for them to work. ‘Haritha Arikkulam’ is the project for waste management and it was a grand success throughout the 13 wards. “We were able to collect cent per cent tax for the last three years. Dairy farm project, palliative scheme to take care of the bedridden by visiting their houses and learning scheme for scheduled caste students were launched last year and implemented on time,” said V.M Unni, gram panchayat Vice President.
Construction of own building for all Ankanwadis is another fete that Arikkulam can boast of. Three drinking water projects, building for homeo hospital and construction of palliative treatment centre were also completed last year. Arikkulam was adjudged as the second best gram panchayat in the district twice. C. Radha is the President of the gram panchayat. “The Rs 10 lakh received as part of the recognition will be allotted for development projects,” she said.
