PATNA, April 1 -- Telkap gram panchayat of Rohtas district has secured the second position at the Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar for 2025. This national-level recognition, conferred by the Union ministry of panchayati raj, Government of India, honours outstanding performance in sustainable development at the grassroots. Anita Toppo, the Mukhiya (head) of Telkap gram panchayat, was felicitated for the panchayat's remarkable progress. State panchayati raj minister Deepak Prakash extended warm congratulations to her and the entire team, describing the feat as a proud moment not just for the district but for the entire state. "Telkap gram panchayat's notable work in the direction of development has earned national recognition, which is a matter of pride for Bihar," Prakash said. He highlighted that the effective leadership of the woman representative here serves as an inspiration not only for other panchayats in the state but across the country. The minister noted that Bihar's gram panchayats, under the guidance of women representatives, are rapidly advancing and setting new benchmarks in development. This success, he added, is the outcome of the Panchayati Raj Department's ongoing efforts to empower local self-governance institutions. "It will motivate other gram panchayats in the state to perform even better," Prakash emphasised. The department remains committed to capacity building of elected representatives at the three-tier panchayat system - gram panchayats, panchayat samitis, and zila parishads. Regular training programmes are organised within the state and at reputed institutions outside, helping local leaders understand on-ground challenges and contribute effectively to policy-making. These initiatives have steadily improved the efficiency and accountability of panchayats, officials said. The Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar is one of the prestigious National Panchayat Awards presented annually by the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj. It primarily recognises the top three gram panchayats, block panchayats, and district panchayats for their exceptional work aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Officials of the development said that the award will further encourage local bodies to work for inclusive development, social justice, environmental conservation and ensure good governance at the village level. The national level recognition for Telkap also underlines the growing role of women-led panchayats in facilitating meaningful changes in rural areas of the state....