Amaravati | October 11, 2025:
In a major step towards strengthening local governance, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan announced the *reorganization of gram panchayats into four grades. The decision was taken during the *state cabinet meeting, marking a significant shift in rural administrative policy.
Panchayat Clusters Abolished, New Administrative Units Formed
Deputy CM Pawan stated that the government has abolished the existing cluster system in gram panchayats. Instead of the previous *7,244 clusters, the state will now have **13,351 independent gram panchayats, each recognized as an *autonomous administrative unit.
This change is expected to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in local governance, ensuring faster implementation of welfare schemes and development works.
Panchayats Categorized Into Four Grades
Pawan Kalyan revealed that gram panchayats will now be classified into four distinct grades based on population, infrastructure, and revenue parameters. The move is aimed at streamlining governance, improving local resource management, and empowering panchayat-level leadership.
He further stated that the designation of “Gram Secretary” will now be changed to “Panchayat Development Officer” (PDO) — reflecting the expanded role and responsibility in developmental administration.
Strengthening Grassroots Governance
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the reorganization aligns with the government’s broader goal of empowering local self-governance institutions. By decentralizing authority and improving administrative capacity, the government hopes to ensure that every village receives equal attention in terms of infrastructure, education, health, and social welfare programs.
Officials said that the revamped panchayat framework will also help reduce bureaucratic delays and bring decision-making closer to the people.
Key Takeaways
- Andhra Pradesh abolishes cluster system in rural administration.
- 13,351 gram panchayats to function as independent units, replacing 7,244 clusters.
- Panchayats reorganized into four grades for better governance.
- Gram Secretaries renamed as Panchayat Development Officers (PDOs).
- Move aims to strengthen local governance and accelerate development.