The Government of Karnataka, through the Karnataka Monitoring and Evaluation Authority (KMEA), has commissioned GRAAM to conduct an “Evaluation study on District Planning Committee and Strengthening in compliance with emerging model in the field”.

The study aims to assess how effectively DPCs [mandated under Article 243ZD of the Constitution and the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Act (1993)] are performing their role in preparing integrated district development plans that harmonize rural and urban priorities. It evaluates the organizational structure, roles, responsibilities, and functioning of DPCs across all 31 districts of Karnataka, along with a comparative analysis of two southern states (Kerala and Tamil Nadu/Andhra Pradesh).

Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines large-scale surveys, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies to assess DPCs’ performance, inclusivity, capacity needs, and impact on development outcomes. It also examines the effects of the 2016 amendment to the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Act, stakeholder awareness, and satisfaction levels with DPC functioning.

The evaluation seeks to generate evidence-based policy recommendations to strengthen decentralized planning, improve coordination between departments, and enhance participatory, transparent, and accountable governance at the district level. The findings will contribute to advancing Karnataka’s commitment to inclusive and balanced regional development.

Project Objectives:

1. To study the existing organizational structure, planning, roles, responsibilities and functioning of District Planning Committees.
2. To assess the developmental plans prepared and implemented with reference to the objectives of DPC and examine whether they are able to meet the desired goals, meeting the basic needs, infrastructure, water, sanitation, environmental protection, resource mobilisation etc.
3. To compare DPC functioning with other 2 southern States.
4. To analyse the changes in status prior to and following the 2016 amendment of DPC to the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Act of 1993.
5. To understand the awareness about the DPC among the respondents.
6. To analyse the capacity requirements of DPC members in preparation and consolidation of District Plans.
7. To examine the challenges in functioning of DPC.
8. To know the opinion, satisfaction level, perception and demands about DPC.
9. To evolve policy changes at State, Central level and measures to be taken, on various capacity building requirements of DPCs including professional interventions for effective formulation and implementation of plans and projects by the DPCs.