Based on our work with Gram Panchayats (GPs) in multiple states, we find a large information asymmetry between GPs and other tiers of governments. While on one hand, large amount of data is collected and consolidated at various levels, being portrayed in a detailed form in the websites of different ministries and departments of the government, on the other hand, the local government which is assigned with 29 functions as per the 73rd Amendment, by and large operates without support of data. Our recent study to map available information and access protocols in websites of 11 Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) shows that extensive, granular information exists, which is by and large available in public domain. However there are many issues that come in the way of Gram Panchayats accessing and using these MIS for their planning and monitoring.

Excerpt from the report: Key information being tracked in websites of key Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS)