Strengthening citizen participation in local planning
The role of local government in planning and implementing sustainable development is often undermined in India by centrally sponsored government programs. In the state of Tamil Nadu, the Foundation supported public-private dialogues on the findings of an economic governance survey conducted by our partner, the Centre for Development Finance of the Institute for Financial Management and Research. We brought together the business community, elected leaders, and government officials to review survey findings, discuss local priorities, and prepare action plans for the government and private sector to work together in health, education, and land management. Working groups were established to carry out each plan. In the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, one of the most water-deprived areas in the world, the Foundation helped Jal Bhagirathi Foundation establish a communication and advocacy unit to contribute effectively to water policy forums in Rajasthan, nationally and internationally. Through research, policy briefs, and films, they are sharing their pioneering work with other Indian states severely affected by water constraints.