20 years progress report of agrasri 2001-2021-two decades of services in rural india

Progress Report of AGRASRI : 2001-2021
20th Anniversary Celebrations
2001-2021
1 Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI), Tirupati, AP
20 Years of Services in Panchayati Raj,
Rural Development, Women Empowerment,
Youth Development and
Good Governance at the Grassroots
PROGRESS REPORT OF THE
ACADEMY OF GRASSROOTS STUDIES AND
RESEARCH OF INDIA: 2001-2021
FOUNDERS
DR. D. SUNDAR RAM
Formerly ICSSR Senior Fellow, SV University, Tirupati
MRS. D. BHARATHI SUNDAR
Social Activist, Tirupati
Published by:
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India, Tirupati
[ Grant-in-Aid Research Organisation for Maintenance and Development by the ICSSR, Govt. of India ]
# Plot No.11, Sri Venkata Sai Nilayam, Thummalagunta, SV University PO, Tirupati-517502, AP
Website: www.agrasri.org.in
Gram Swaraj Through Grassroots Democracy

2001-2021
CONTENTS
Pages
Foreword by PROF. V.R. PANCHAMUKHI 5-6
Director’s Note by DR. D. SUNDAR RAM 7-8
 MESSAGES
 DR. MANMOHAN SINGH, Hon’ble MP (Rajya Sabha) and Former Prime Minister of India 9
 SHRI ARIF MOHAMMAD KHAN, H.E., the Governor of Kerala 10
 DR. TAMILISAI SOUDARARAJAN, H.E., the Governor Telangana 11
 DR. C. RANGARAJAN, Former Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Reserve Bank of India 12
 SMT. REKHA SHARMA, Chairperson, National Commission for Women, Govt. of India 13
 Impressions and Perceptions on AGRASRI by Distinguished Scholars and Administrators
 AGRASRI: Passion for Self-sufficient Village Republics in India
PROF. R.A. MASHELKAR
Chancellor, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai
14
 AGRASRI: Passion for Self-sufficient Village Republics in India
PROF. S. JAYARAMA REDDY
Chancellor, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Viswa Mahavidyalaya, Kancheepuram
15
 AGRASRI: A Beacon of Light in Panchayati Raj Administration
PROF. L. VENUGOPAL REDDY
Former Chairman, AP State Council of Higher Education, Govt. of AP, Hyderabad
16
 AGRASRI: Centre of Excellence in Local Governance Studies
PROF. M. ASLAM
Former Vice-Chancellor, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
17
 AGRASRI: Committed Research Institute on Grassroots Studies in India
PROF. M.M. GOEL
Vice-Chancellor, Starex University, Gurugram
18
 AGRASRI: Inspiring and Commendable Work on Panchayati Raj Institutions
DR. W.R. REDDY, IAS (RETD.)
Director-General [Retd.], NIRDPR, Hyderabad
19
 AGRASRI: Dedicated to the Mahatma Gandhi’s Dream of ‘Gram Swaraj’
PROF. RAJESH TANDON
Founder President, Participatory Research in Asia, New Delhi
19
 AGRASRI: An Excellent Track Record on PRI’s
PROF. R. RADHAKRISHNA
Chairman, Centre for Economic and Social Studies, Hyderabad
20
 AGRASRI: Mission and Vision for Good Governance at the Grassroots
SHRI G.V. SRINATH REDDY
Former Chairman, Zilla Parishad, Chittoor and Former MLA, Piler, Andhra Pradesh
21
 AGRASRI: A Visionary Organisation for Rural Transformation in India
SHRI JUSTICE D. SUBRAHMANYAM
Former Judge, Andhra Pradesh High Court. Hyderabad
22
 AGRASRI’s Work Really Belongs to AGRASRENI (Top Class)
DR. T. HANUMAN CHOWDARY
Chairman, Prajna Bharati and Former IT Adviser to Govt. of AP, Hyderabad
23

2001-2021
 AGRASRI: Marching Ahead for the Service of Panchayati Raj
DR. R.A. PADMANABHA RAO
Former Additional Director-General of Doordarshan, New Delhi
24
 AGRASRI: A Vibrant Institution in the NGO Sector at the National Level
SHRI K. KARUNAKAR PATTNAIK, IAS (RETD.)
Former Director, State Institute of Rural Development, Govt. of Odisha, Bhubaneshwar
25
 AGRASRI: 20 Years Journey in Panchayati Raj and Rural Development
PROF (MRS) B. VENGAMMA
Director & Vice-Chancellor, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences, Tirupati
26
 AGRASRI: A Pioneer in Grassroots Studies and Governance in India
PROF. A. DAMODARAM
Ex. Vice-Chancellor, SVU& Director, School of Information Technology, JNTU, Hyderabad
27
 AGRASRI: Working for Self-sufficient Village Republics in India
SHRI VENKATRAO Y.GHORPADE
Vice-Chairman, Karnataka State Panchayati Raj Parishat, Bengaluru
28-29
 AGRASRI: Committed and Dedicated Social Science Research Institute
DR. GEORGE MATHEW
Chairman, Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi
30
 AGRASRI: An Institution Par Excellence Working for Power to the People
PROF. YATINDRA SINGH SISODIA
Director, Madhya Pradesh Institute of Social Science Research, Ujjain
31
 AGRASRI: An Extraordinary Institution Working for Grassroots Democracy
SHRI K. P. SAROHA
Commissioner (Retd), Departmental Inquiries, Central Vigilance Commission, New Delhi
32
 About Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India [AGRASRI]
 Genesis of AGRASRI 33-34
 Vision of AGRASRI 34
 Mission of AGRASRI 34
 Objectives of AGRASRI 34-35
 Management of AGRASRI
 Hon. Visitor 36
 Hon. Chief Patron 36
 Founder Chairman 37
 Board of Governors 37-41
 Executive Council 41-45
 Hon. Board of Advisers 45-47
 Research Council 48-51
 Distinguished Fellows and Guest Faculty of AGRASRI
 Hon. Distinguished Fellows 52-54
 Hon. Visiting Senior Fellows 55-57
 Hon. Visiting Fellows 57-58
 Guest Faculty 58-60
 Administrative Staff 60

2001-2021
 Academic Programmes: 2002-2020
 National Seminars/Conferences/Workshops/Round-Table Meetings/Colloquiums 60-67
 PHOTO ALBUM ON AGADEMIC PROGRAMMES 68-79
 Special Programmes: 2002-2019
 Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture Programmes: 2002-2019 79-82
 Rajiv Gandhi National Awards (in 7 Categories) - ROLL OF HONOUR 82-95
 PHOTO ALBUM ON SPECIAL PROGRAMMES 96-104
 Exclusive Programmes: 2002-2021
 Chittoor District Formation Day Lecture Programmes: 2011-2021 104-106
 Chittoor District Centenary Awards (in 8 Categories) - ROLL OF HONOUR 106-115
 PHOTO ALBUM ON EXCLUSIVE PROGRAMMES 116-121
 AGRASRI Foundation Day Lecture Programmes: 2002-2019 121-124
 PHOTO ALBUM ON AGRASRI FOUNDATION DAY LECTURE PROGRAMME 124-129
 Research Programmes: 2002-2020
 Research Books 130-136
 Research Journal - The Grassroots Governance Journal (ISSN: 0973-0257) 137-150
 Research Projects 150-151
 Occasional Papers 151-153
 Special Papers 153-154
 Working Papers 154-163
 Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture and Rajiv Gandhi National Awards Souvenirs 163-167
 Chittoor Dist. Formation Day Lecture & Chittoor Dist. Centenary Awards Souvenirs 167-169
 Capacity Building and Training Programmes for Elected Representatives of PRI’s
 Capacity Building and Training Programmes for Gram Panchayat Sarpanchs and
MPTC Members in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, 10 March-7 April, 2010
(1,704 Members in 65 Batches).
170-173
 Capacity Building and Training Programmes for Gram Panchayat Upa-Sarpanchs and
Ward Members in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, 13 September-23 October,
2010 (9,166 Members in 218 Batches).
174-178
 PHOTO ALBUM ON CAPACITY BUILDING AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES 178-187
 Residential Capacity Building and Training Programmes for SC and ST Elected Gram
Panchayat Sarpanchs and Ward Members in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, 5-9
February, 2016 (40 Members).
187-188
 Field Visits by AGRASRI Research Team in Selected Gram Panchayats in AP and Tamil Nadu States 188
 PHOTO ALBUM ON AGRASRI FIELD VISITS IN SELECTED GRAM PANCHAYATS 188-195
 Networking Organisations of AGRASRI 195-196
 List of Distinguished Visitors to AGRASRI: 2002-2021 196-201
 List of Senior Social Scientists Visited to AGRASRI: 2002-2021 201-205
 Recognitions and Rewards to AGRASRI: 2002-2021 205-206
 Press Coverage on AGRASRI Activities and Programmes: 2002-2021 207-221
 AGRASRI YouTube Videos 222-224
 All India Radio Talks by AGRASRI Founder and Director 225-226
 Testimonials by the Distinguished Policy Makers and Scholars on AGRASRI Activities 226-231

2001-2021
PROF. V. R. PANCHAMUKHI
Former Chairman
Indian Council of Social Science Research, New Delhi
Former Chancellor
National Sanskrit University), Tirupati
Chancellor
Sri Gurusarvabhouma Samskruta Vidyapeetha, Mantralaya
Chairman
Board of Governors, AGRASRI, Tirupati
D-4/2, Welcom Group CGHS
Sector 3, Plot 6
Dwarka
New Delhi-110 075.
E.mail: vadirajp36@gmail.com
FOREWORD
I am very happy to note that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India
(AGRASRI), Tirupati, has completed 20 years of its journey in the services of Panchayati Raj and
Rural Development and publish the Progress Report to mark the occasion. The Academy of
Grassroots Studies and Research of India was founded by social activist couple Dr. D. Sundar Ram
and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar in the year 2001. It is founded to provide an environment suitable for
the study and promotion of academic research, training, policy advocacy and networking in
grassroots democratic institutions for self-sufficient Village Republics in India. The primary object
of the academy is to develop a sound and efficient grassroots democratic system for achieving the
Gandhian dream of Gram Swaraj. This is a unique Academy in the field of Grassroots Studies and
Governance in India. It provides a bridge between the elected representatives of Panchayati Raj,
Nagar Palika Institutions, academicians, researchers, administrators and others working in the
field, under the take care of Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar, Founder and Co-
founder of the AGRASRI.
In pursuance of the aims and objectives of the AGRASRI towards strengthening grassroots
democratic Institutions as self-sufficient Village Republics in India, a number of academic and
research activities have been organised since its inception. The regular Rajiv Gandhi Memorial
Lecture; Rajiv Gandhi National Awards; Chittoor District Formation Day Lecture; Chittoor District
Centenary Awards and AGRASRI Foundation Day Lecture programmes, besides the publication of
its Bi-annual research journal, The Grassroots Governance Journal, received an appreciation and
accolades from many policy makers of India. The Academy has an outstanding record of training,
research and advocacy in the field of panchayati raj, rural development, women empowerment,
capacity building and training, good governance, youth development, micro-planning and allied
areas, since its inception. The AGRASRI is recognised as research organisation by the Indian
Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Govt. of India, under the Grant-in-aid for Maintenance
and Development scheme since 2016-2017 onwards.
The AGRASRI future agenda is working vigorously in propagating Mahatma Gandhi’s
dream ‘Gram Swaraj’ and Rajiv Gandhi’s vision ‘Power to the People’ by way of adopting few Gram
Panchayats as Role Model Gram Panchayats in India. AGRASRI is contemplating to conduct
numerous research studies and publications on Social Science disciplines to trace out the societal
problems at the grassroots level and offer its findings useful to pursue many alternative solutions
by the policy makers from Gram Sabha to Lok Sabha in the years to come.

2001-2021
As Chairman of the Board of the Governors of AGRASRI, I congratulate Dr. D. Sundar Ram
and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar for their dedication and steadfast devotion to duty for the growth
and development of Panchayati Raj administration in contemporary India, despite financial
constraints. I hope and urge that the Governments at the Centre and State should give monetary
support and encouragement to AGRASRI in carrying its agenda Gram Swaraj through Grassroots
Democracy. I offer my compliments and best wishes to the dedicated team of AGRASRI, for every
success in future endeavours.
(PROF. V.R. PANCHAMUKHI )
Date: 15.08.2021.
The days of distinction between ruler and ruled are long gone. We must annihilate cast
discriminations. In today’s India no one should consider oneself superior to others. In political
life everyone has a vote; in economic matters everyone has equal opportunities; in our
panchayats also everyone should be considered equal; there should be no distinction between
man and woman, high and low. We are all children of one country. Whatever our religion, we
should all live like brothers. We should respect all our religions. We have to march ahead in
spirit of unity and brotherhood. We should have courage to complete our work and faith in
ourselves.
-PANDIT JAWAHARLAL NEHRU

2001-2021
2001-2021
ACADEMY OF GRASSROOTS STUDIES AND RESEARCH OF INDIA [AGRASRI]
(ICSSR Grant-in Aid Research Organisation for Maintenance and Development, Govt. of India from 2016-17)
Working for the Self-sufficient Village Republics in India ICSSR
DR. D. SUNDAR RAM
(Formerly ICSSR Senior Fellow, SV University)
Founder and Director, AGRASRI
Chief Organiser, Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture
Editor, The Grassroots Governance Journal
Consulting Editor, American Biographical Institute
Former Reader in Public Administration, ANU PG Centre
Regd. Office:
Plot No.11, Sri Venkata Sai Nilayam
Thummalagunta, SV University P.O.
Tirupati-517502, Andhra Pradesh
Mobile: 9441245085, 6302947338
E.mail: drsundarram@gmail.com
Website: http://www.agrasri.org.in
Director’s Note
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) was set up in the year
2001 to build the Capacity among the elected representatives of the Panchayati Raj Institutions,
Women and Youth leaders through training, research, education and advocacy with administrative
skills, knowledge, competence and planning required for managing the tasks of governance at the
grassroots level. In its efforts to enhance the grassroots leadership, management and administrative
capabilities of the grassroots policy makers in the local governance and administration, the AGRASRI
works in close collaboration with the government and research organisations. Building upon the
conception of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and Vision of Shri Rajiv Gandhi, the AGRASRI
aims to be achieved their dreams ‘Gram Swaraj’ and ‘Power to the People’.
Enactment of 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act in 1993 and the subsequent State-wise
Panchayati Raj Acts has brought to frontline significance of grassroots democratic processes in rural
India. Thanks entirely to the tireless efforts and visionary of Shri Rajiv Gandhi that the ‘Power to the
People’ at the grassroots alone ensures inclusive governance which is essential for inclusive economic
growth in contemporary India. The 73rd Amendment Act to the Indian Constitution has initiated a
fundamental restructuring of governance and administrative system of rural India, based on the
philosophy of decentralisation and power to the people at the grassroots level. A real vision of
democracy requires delegations of power from above to the below and true devolution of power to
the common man at the grassroots. Even after an enactment of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment
Act, with almost 28 years of its complicated journey, Panchayati Raj system in India has been a matter
of debate and speculation about its anticipated performance and impact, as Constitutional Bodies for
public service delivery at the District, Taluk and Gram Panchayats. Now the real issue or
apprehension of every rural citizen is whether the Panchayati Raj Institutions in India truly
empowered or disempowered with manifold experiments and experiences initiated by several State
Governments as well as Union Government in recent times.
It is true that the spirit of participatory decentralised governance has not been developed to
the desired levels in majority of the states, as per the provisions of the 73rd Constitutional
Amendment Act of 1993 in letter and spirit. One really thinks that why is there a mockery of
devolution and decentralisation process in India? Why are the PRIs deliberately being kept
handicapped by majority of State Governments, as true Constitutional Bodies in Rural India, leave

2001-2021
alone the Union Government? How do we move forward and facilitate true representation-
descriptive, substantive and transformative? Why are the expected desires and expectations of the
rural people kept in doldrums as functioning of true Panchayati Raj Institutions? The time has come
for more meaningful action by the respective State Governments in strengthening the Panchayati Raj
Institutions as Constitutional bodies by way of formulating another Generation of Reforms.
It is my pleasure in placing before you this 20 Years Progress Report of AGRASRI which
contains the Impressions and views on AGRASRI by few leading policy makers in general and
activities and programmes of AGRASRI over a period of 20 Years in particular, to map the spectrum of
new vision for transformation and empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions for achieving Self-
sufficient Village Republics in India in all respects.
I am extremely grateful to Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, Former Union Minister for Panchayati Raj,
Govt. of India and Hon. Chief Patron of AGRASRI and Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, Former Secretary-General
of Lok Sabha and Founder Chairman of AGRASRI, for their constant support, guidance and
encouragement for organising numerous academic, research and training programmes in a regular
manner since 2002 onwards.
I am very much thankful to Prof. V. R. Panchamukhi, Former Chairman of the Indian Council of
Social Science Research (ICSSR) and Chairman of the AGRASRI Board of Governors for his enlightened
Foreword to the Progress Report.
I express my gratitude to the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, for
its constant encouragement and support to the AGRASRI research activities and its recognition under
the Grant-in-aid scheme for Maintenance and Development from 2016-2017 onwards.
I appreciate the support and encouragement that I have been received from the Members of
Board of Governors, Board of Advisers, the Executive Council and my colleagues and well-wishers for
the success of the 20th Anniversary Celebrations of AGRASRI.
As Founder Director of AGRASRI, I extend my gratitude and accolades to each and every
individual, partner organisations, well-wishers and supporters of AGRASRI, for their enriching
encouragement, solace and benevolence to the solid journey of AGRASRI in achieving few milestones
in the services of rural India.
(D. SUNDAR RAM)
Founder and Director, AGRASRI
Place: Tirupati, AP
Date: 15.08.2021.

2001-2021
MANMOHAN SINGH
Member of Parliament
Rajya Sabha
MESSAGE
I am glad to know that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is going
to publish its 20th Anniversary Progress Report. The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India
was established on the initiative of a group of academicians, scholars and administrators across the nation
to provide an environment suitable for the study and promotion of academic research, training, policy
advocacy and networking in grassroots democratic institutions for self-sufficient Village Republics in
India. It is an autonomous, independent, non-profit Non-Governmental Organisation.
As grassroots level research organisation since its inception, it aims to promote action research,
training and information dissemination in the State of Andhra Pradesh and beyond. It has also conducted
training programmes for capacity building among several stakeholders in the development sphere at the
grassroots level.
The Academy is recognized as Nodal Agency and Technical Support Institute by the Govt. of India
and Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, for imparting Capacity Building and Training Programmes for the elected
representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Youth Leaders and Self-Help Group Members, in the Year
2010.
I take this opportunity to send me Best Wishes to the officials, staff members and all the people
connected with the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India.
New Delhi
December 01, 2020.
3, Motilal Nehru Place, New Delhi-110 011
Tel. : 23015470, 23795152 Fax : 23011450
E-mail: manmohan@gov.in

2001-2021
ARIF MOHAMMED KHAN RAJ BHAVAN
GOVERNOR OF KERALA THIRUVANANTHAPURAM-695099
06 October, 2020.
MESSAGE
I am very glad to know that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI),
registered research organisation, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year and that a Progress Report is
being published to mark the occasion.
It is commendable that Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India has been offering
various services in the areas of Panchayati Raj, Rural Development, Women Empowerment, Youth
Development and Good Governance etc.
I compliment the people behind this venture and wish the celebration and the 20 Years Progress
Report of AGRASRI: 2001-2020 all success.
(ARIF MOHAMMED KHAN)

2001-2021
DR. TAMILISAI SOUNDARARAJN RAJ BHAVAN
Hyderabad-500041
GOVERNOR
TELANGANA
23.10.2020.
MESSAGE
I am delighted to know that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is
coming out its 20 Years Progress Report on the occasion of its completion of its 20 Years of service in the
field of rural development.
Offering services in areas of panchayati raj, rural development, women empowerment, youth
development and other allied fields of rural India is for two decades is appreciable.
I am happy to find that this 20 Years Progress Report is being brought with an objective of coming
out with a roadmap for the next decade to attain the self sufficiency of villages.
I extend my appreciation and greetings to all you for offering relentless services in the field of rural
development through participatory methods.
I wish you all and your organization many more milestones in the years to come in the service of the
people in rural areas.

2001-2021
Dr. C. RANGARAJAN
Former Chairman
Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister
Former Governor, Andhra Pradesh and RBI
Chairman
Madras School of Economics
Gandhi Mandapam Road, Kottur
Chennai-600025
November 6, 2020.
MESSAGE
I am very happy to know that Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) has
completed 20 meaningful years in the service of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development. Under the
dynamic leadership of Dr. D. Sundar Ram, the Academy has been organising several lectures, seminars,
workshops and training programmes as well as undertaking research projects. While the Academy has
been involved with several areas including Women Empowerment, Youth Development and Good
Governance, its main focus and contribution has been in the area of strengthening Local Government
Institutions as a main tool of rural development.
There are a very few institutions like AGRASRI which are exclusively devoted to the promotion of
local governments. Despite many changes that have occurred in the profile of Indian population, it is very
much true that even today bulk of the population lives in rural areas. Rural development must therefore
claim our prime attention.
I congratulate Dr. D. Sundar Ram and his colleagues on the solid work they have done and are
doing. I wish AGRASRI all the best in the future.
(C. RANGARAJAN)
Res: F-1, Ranga Vilas, 23/12 III Main Road, Nanganallur, Chennai 600016
(Res) 044-22243384 (Mob.) 9445183385 Email: c.rangarajan@mse.ac.in

2001-2021
REKHA SHARMA
Chairperson
Tel: 011-26944808
Fax: 011-26944771
GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR WOMEN
PLOT NO.21, FC-33, JASOLA
INSTITUTIONAL AREA,
NEW DELHI-110026
Website: www.ncw.nic.in
E.mail: chairperson-ncw@nic.in
sharma.rekha@gov.in
Date: 8 October, 2020.
MESSAGE
The father of our Nation, Shri Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi had once said that the soul of India
lives in its villages. After over decades, his statement still holds true and I can think of no other
organisation besides Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) which has worked
with both passion and innovation to realise Gandhiji’s dream of Gram Swaraj.
I congratulate AGRASRI for completing 20 wonderful years of their innovative approach towards
strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions. I must say that AGRASRI work has been crucial in furthering the
issues of rural India and supplementing the government’s efforts to bring development to the remote
parts of the country.
Though our country is rapidly changing and achieving new milestones of development, but the real
India always continue to live in villages. I hope that the works of the Organisation would go a long way in
creating a favourable environment for the development of grassroots institutions ultimately empowering
rural India, especially its women.
I extend my best wishes to Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar and their entire team
for their future endeavours.
( REKHA SHARMA )

2001-2021
Impressions and Perceptions on AGRASRI by Distinguished Scholars and Administrators
AGRASRI: Passion for Self-sufficient Village Republics in India
DR. R. A. MASHELKAR
Chancellor, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India is completing two decades of a
remarkable journey. I want to congratulate Dr Sundar Ram and Mrs Bharathi Sundar for conceptualising
this very idea those Self-sufficient Village Republics of India is the need of the hour and then creating
programmes to support this idea of development by decentralisation, which is really the need of the hour.
I got to know about this wonderful organisation AGRASRI, when I was given the privilege by Dr
Sundar Ram to deliver the prestigious 6th Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture in 2007. Since then I have been
following the wonderful programmes carried out by the AGRASRI Foundation, which are impressive in
terms of the national relevance, diversity as well as impact.
The capacity building and training programmes carried through national conferences and
workshops have dealt with very critical issues, which include subjects such as the powers and
responsibilities of Panchayati Raj institutions, the challenge of good governance of panchayats, grassroots
level planning as a also grassroots women's leadership, the role and significance in decision-making at the
grassroots level, issues concerning basic sanitation in rural India, changing role of self help groups
mainstreaming of youth in local governance, etc.
This is a unique Academy concerned with grassroots studies and research, is driven by a powerful
purpose, which has been pursued with perseverance and passion by Dr Sundar Ram and Mrs. Bharathi
Sundar for two decades now.
I want to congratulate both of them for their commitment, passion and dedication to a great cause
of building a truly inclusive India. The past two decades of journey has been remarkable and I'm quite sure
as we approach the silver jubilee of this great organisation, we would see some transformative changes,
because decentralised development, which Mahatma Gandhi had preached us about, is now coming to the
centre stage.
I extend my very best wishes and choicest blessings to the AGRASRI and wish it a glorious future.
Keep your thoughts positive because your thoughts become your words. Keep your words
positive because your words become your behavior. Keep your behavior positive because
your behavior becomes your habits. Keep your habits positive because your habits become
your values. Keep your values positive because your values become your destiny.
-MAHATMA GANDHI

2001-2021
AGRASRI: A Change Maker Institute for Panchayati Raj and Rural Development
PROF. S. JAYARAMA REDDY
Chancellor, Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Viswa Mahavidyalaya, Kancheepuram
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is organising many
programmes right from the grassroots level to the national level and bringing the policy makers at one
platform through its various discourses and discussions. Over a period of 20 years, AGRASRI has succeeded
to involve many reputed policy makers, scientists, economists, educationalists, administrators, researchers
and elected representatives of people’s institutions to draw their attention towards the problems and
challenges in rural India to find alternative solutions and suggestions.
Today, the nation needs the committed and dedicated organisations for achieving the sustainable
development in rural India. It is a matter of fact that the tireless efforts and dedicated services, the
AGRASRI Founders Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar crossed obstacles and impediments for
smooth running of their journey in the services of rural India with recognition, as one of the best and
perfect grassroots organisations in India.
Every year, the AGRASRI is conferring the Rajiv Gandhi Best District, Best Taluk, Best Gram
Panchayat and Gram Swaraj National Awards on the role model elected representatives of Panchayati Raj
Institutions at all India level for the past 20 years.
AGRASRI is also organising Chittoor District Formation Day Lecture and conferring the Chittoor
District Centenary Awards every year. I had an occasion to participate in the Chittoor District Formation
Day Lecture and Chittoor District Centenary Awards conferment programme a couple of years ago.
I wish the AGRASRI Founders and its dedicated team all success in future endeavours and wish the
AGRASRI journey much more fruitful in the services of rural India in future.
If the people who are elected are capable and men of character and integrity, they would
be able to make the best even of a defective Constitution. If they are lacking in these, the
Constitution cannot help the country. After all, a Constitution like a machine is a lifeless
thing. It acquires life because of the men who control it and operate it, and India needs
today nothing more than a set of honest men who will have the interest of the country
before them. There is a fissiparous tendency arising out of various elements in our life. We
have communal differences, caste differences, language differences, provincial differences
and so forth. It requires men of strong character, men of vision, men who will not sacrifice
the interests of the country at large for the sake of smaller groups and areas and who will
rise over the prejudices which are born of these differences. We can only hope that the
country will throw up such men in abundance.
-RAJENDRA PRASAD

2001-2021
AGRASRI: A Beacon of Light in Panchayati Raj Administration
PROF. L. VENUGOPAL REDDY
Former Chairman, AP State Council of Higher Education, Hyderabad
I am happy to know that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is
celebrating its 20th Anniversary and bringing out its 20 Years Progress Report on this occasion. This
academy is a beacon light in the Panchayati Raj administration, through research, training, education and
advocacy. I had an opportunity to participate in many of the AGRASRI programmes as Chief Guest and
found that its zeal, commitment and dedication in bringing the transformation in rural areas. I must say
that the list of all the programmes of the AGRASRI is impeccable, constructive and popular in all respects. I
congratulate the Founders of AGRASRI Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar for their
praiseworthy services and contributions in the services of Gram Panchayats, women empowerment and
youth development.
Under the nurture of the AGRASRI Founders, its track record is very much significant and
admirable. The recognition of the Indian Council of Social Science Research itself a testimony to AGRASRI
work and epitome in Panchayati Raj administration.
Since its inception, the AGRASRI has designed many useful academic as well as research activities
and executed with plentiful outputs and achievements successfully in delivery of good governance at the
grassroots. The AGRASRI has succeeded in carry together the reputed policy makers, social scientists,
economists, administrators, academicians, researchers at one level and the elected representatives and
officials of Panchayati Raj Institutions, women and youth leaders at another level and provide the bridge
between them to deliver accomplished objectives and sustained results in achieving gram swaraj and
inclusive growth over a period of 2 decades. It is really an innovative experiment in the panchayati raj
administration to bring the expertise and advocacy for immense benefit of the elected representatives of
local self government institutions. Today, the Government of Andhra Pradesh is also exercising the similar
experiment by way of introducing the Gram Sachivalayas with potential Gram Volunteers in delivery of
public services in nook and corner of the villages in rural Andhra Pradesh up to the satisfaction of the rural
people.
The AGRASRI is continuing its journey in the services of rural India for the past 20 years despite
lack of financial resources and infrastructural facilities in the execution of multiple programmes. This
hardship is not hindering the journey of AGRASRI in implementing its agenda ‘in achieving Self-sufficient
Village Republics in rural India. The AGRASRI is a unique institution to develop a sound and efficient
grassroots democratic system in India for achieving twin objectives of Mahatma Gandhi dream of ‘Gram
Swaraj’ and Rajiv Gandhi unfinished agenda ‘Power to the People’. It is a fact that the many of the elected
representatives of PRI’s have no adequate administrative skills and capabilities to bring the effective and
applicable policy frame work in Panchayati Raj administration. The AGRASRI is working relentlessly for
the past 2 decades in providing an efficient and practical Capacity Building and Training programmes to
the elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions.
In delivery of public services to the people at the grassroots level, the expertise and involvement of
reputed research organisations like AGRASRI is need of the hour, along with the efforts of respective
governments at the Centre and States in brining the transformation in rural villages. In achieving the
sustainable development goals of the United Nations Organisation, the future is depending on the capacity
and capabilities of the Civil Society Organisations and Non-Governmental Organisations.
I wish the AGRASRI Founders and its excellent team on this happy occasion for bringing more
transformation at the grassroots level in achieving its goal self-sufficient village republics in India.

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Centre of Excellence in Local Governance Studies
PROF. M. ASLAM
Former Vice-Chancellor, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi
I am happy to know that The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) has
reached a milestone of twenty years of its existence in providing a bridge between the elected
representatives of Panchayati Raj and Nagar Palika Institutions, academicians, researchers and
administrators. Its vision of self-sufficient Village Republics in contemporary India remained Mahatma
Gandhi’s dream as well under Gram Swaraj.
With limited human and financial resources AGRASRI has done a commendable job in terms of
associating experienced persons with its mission, holding Memorial Lectures, instituting the National
Awards, Research Publications, conducting Capacity Building Programmes, and organising National
Seminars, Conferences, Workshops and Round Table Meetings.
There is an urgent need to catalyse the process of democratic decentralisation. It is expected that
the institutions of local governance will facilitate developing a clear vision and strategy to plan and
provide for an appropriate research and training intervention to meet the challenge of facilitating and
expediting the silent revolution expected to be brought about by the 73rd and 74th Amendments of the
Indian Constitution. The sooner we realise better it will be. I will only plead that we delink local
governance from polity.
Institution building and sustaining an institution is not an easy task. It calls for total dedication on
the part of those who are engaged in doing so. Dr. D. Sundar Ram, Founder Director, and Mrs. D. Bharathi
Sundar, Co- Founder, AGRASRI, deserves sincere compliments for the growth of this institution on
sustainable basis. I wish AGRASRI all success and look forward to its march to be the Centre of Excellence
in the field of local governance in India.
Darkness is that which isolates our consciousness within our own self. It hides the great
truth of our unity with the world, giving rise to doubt and contention. Groping in the
dark, we stumble against objects to which we cling, believing them to be the only things
we have. When light comes we slacken our hold, finding them to be mere parts of the all
to which we are related. This is freedom--freedom from the isolation of self, from the
isolation of things which impart fierce intensity to our sense of possession. Our God is
that freedom, for He is Light, and in that light we find out truth, which is our perfect
relationship with all.
-RABINDRA NATH TAGORE

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Committed Research Institute on Grassroots Studies in India
PROF. MADAN MOHAN GOEL
Vice-Chancellor, Starex University, Gurugram (Haryana)
It is, indeed, pleasure to learn that as part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the Academy, the
AGRASRI is publishing Progress Report to mark the occasion. I place on record my appreciations for
AGRASRI under the dynamic leadership of Dr. D. Sundar Ram who is a committed researcher on the
grassroots studies in India.
It is in public domain that AGRASRI, Tirupati has successfully completed 20 years of its journey in
the services of panchayati raj, rural development, women empowerment and youth development for
which I am personally a witness in one of the National Seminar in 2017. I have read few of the publications
with rapt attention and found them relevant for the society.
To my mind, the quality of research is directly correlated with the infrastructure, commitment of
the researchers and can be done by having capabilities, desire and to enjoy it.
For facing the challenges in post covid era, there is a need for policy implication oriented research
and not only t-value significance at 95 percent level of significance with many disconnections. To minimise
the data limitations for research in India, there is a strong case for reducing the time lag between the
collection and publication of data on socio - economic indicators and strengthen the data base for future
prediction.
The concept of competition is not acceptable to me which is unhealthy also and justifies survival of
the fittest. I believe in survival of the weak by becoming unique which is the endeavour of AGRASRI by
doing research on grassroots and deserve to be encouraged by all the stakeholders.
To live in society, we need to learn the difference between needonomics (economics of needs)
andgreedonomics (economics of greed). I believe in the principle of ‘Needonomics’ as the smooth path of
survival and revival of the economy in post covid era. Needonomics’ based on Gita sloka no 22 of chapter
09 which is used in the logo of Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India ‘Yogakshemam Vahamyaham’
(Your welfare is our responsibility). It is spiritual, nonviolent and ethical in nature. It says no to greed
authenticating economic thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi.
Needonomics requires actions suiting circumstances as a common sense approach of ‘cut the coat
according to the cloth’. Needonomics is required for saying no to most of the problems caused by
greedonomics including violence, terrorism, crimes, exploitation, deprivation, discrimination, discontent
and corruption of all kinds prevailing in the society.
Endless greed is the real menace facing the world today. To my mind, ‘needonomics’ is necessary
and sufficient for solving the economic and non-economic problems anywhere in the world including
India.The time has come to adopt spiritually guided materialism based on Gita. It needs to be understood
that God has promised to satisfy needs and not greed which should be kept in mind by every individual in
the present times of COVID crisis.
For becoming good researchers, we need to become street smart (simple, moral, action oriented,
responsive and transparent) with needonomics as an area of research is the need of the day.
Once again, I place on record my appreciations to AGRASRI, for making my visit to Tirupati as the
most memorable occasion which I recall with great fondness. Congratulations Dr. D. Sundar Ram Ji and his
dedicated team at AGRASRI.

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Inspiring and Commendable Work on Panchayati Raj Institutions
DR. W. R. REDDY, IAS (RETD.)
Director-General [Retd.], National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Hyderabad
AGRASRI with its 20 years of experience in the field of anchoring the Local Self Governments i.e
Panchayat Raj Institutions in the Country is commendable and I wish to record my appreciation. There are
very few organisations in this sphere and the founders are to be complemented for the good work.
The illustrious speakers that became part of the organisation, on different occasions are inspiring
and the contribution to the field is appreciable.
The AGRASRI has also done good amount of research in the sector to strengthen the Local
Governments. There is much scope for expanding this activity and it is going to be the need of the hour for
strengthening the Panchayat raj institutions in the country.
I wish the organisation a great future.
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AGRASRI: Dedicated to the Mahatma Gandhi’s Dream of ‘Gram Swaraj’
PROF. RAJESH TANDON
Founder-President, Participatory Research in Asia (PRIA), New Delhi
UNESCO Chair on Community Based Research and Social Responsibility in Higher Education
I appreciate the commitment of Dr Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar and congratulate
them and entire AGRASRI team on the occasion of its 20th Anniversary. The Academy is doing a
commendable job in nurturing Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of ‘Gram Swaraj’ into thoughts and actions of
elected members of panchayats, youth and large fraternity of administrators and young researchers.
AGRASRI is a unique blend of research and activism and is instrumental in bridging the gap
between practice and research. With the passage of 73rd Constitutional Amendment, many civil society
organisations has taken a responsibility to take the spirit of Panchayat Raj to the masses in over 0.6
million villages in the country. Efforts were also made to educate and capacitate new generation of citizen
leaders, especially women and marginalised to take leadership positions in Institutions of local self-
government. These Institutions were also given a mandate to manage economic and social welfare
programs and schemes and it requires consistent efforts to build capacities of PRIs, drawing learnings
from field experiences and helping policy makers to overcome challenges and came up with more people
cantered policies.
AGRASRI is one of the pioneer Institutions in the country offering this over the past 20 years. Rajiv
Gandhi Memorial Lecture is one of the internationally acclaimed lectures of the Academy and in true spirit
of Rajiv Gandhi’s vision for grassroots democracy.
My best wishes to the entire AGRASRI team for their excellent work and I feel honoured to be part
of this journey to strengthen the foundations of Indian democracy.

2001-2021
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research in India: An Excellent Track Record on PRIs
PROF. R. RADHAKRISHNA
Chairman, Centre for Economic and Social Studies, Hyderabad
I have great pleasure to write about the academic activities of “Academy of Grassroots Studies and
Research in India” over past two decades. The Academy has a proven record of strengthening the local
administration (Panchayati Raj System) in the state of Andhra Pradesh though a series of lectures,
seminar/conferences, training and capacity development programmes and publications. Many policy
makers and academicians are attached to the Academy as Distinguished Fellow, Visiting Fellow and Guest
Faculty.
It has conducted many research studies and publications in terms of book, working paper,
occasional paper, and special paper dealing with wide varieties of issues on local self-governance system,
particularly of 73rd and 74th Amendment of Indian Constitution. It also expanded its academic activities in
network mode. Many national and state level universities, research institutions and NGOs are under its
network. It is publishing The Grassroots Governance Journal since 2003. Its effort in term of capacity
development programmes and training programmes for Panchayati Raj representatives is laudable.
The Academy is organising the National level Seminars, Conferences, Workshops, Round-Table
Meetings, Colloquiums on Social Science and relevant public policy themes with financial support from
National and State Governments and other Funding Organisations. A large number of social scientists,
policy makers, administrators, researchers and elected representatives of PRI’s have represented and
widely discussed on strengthening of local self-governance system, women empowerment, sustainable
and inclusive development, development of marginalised communities, etc. It has been organising Rajiv
Gandhi Memorial Lecture. Other Lecture Series of Academy includes Chittoor District Formation Day
Lecture as well as its Foundation Day Lecture
Some of the other noteworthy academic activities of the Academy are Distribution of Awards,
celebration of National Youth Day, Women Empowerment Day, National Panchayati Raj Day, Anti-
Terrorism Day, Human Rights Day, and Indian Constitution Day.
I wish the Academy a great accomplishment over the coming years.
Justice has always evoked ideas of equality, of proportion of compensation. Equity
signifies equality. Rules and regulations, right and righteousness are concerned with
equality in value. If all men are equal, then all men are of the same essence, and the
common essence entitles them of the same fundamental rights and equal liberty......In
short justice is another name of liberty, equality and fraternity.
-B.R. AMBEDKAR

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Mission and Vision for Good Governance at the Grassroots
SHRI G.V. SRINATH REDDY
Former Chairman, Zilla Praja Parishad, Chittoor and Former MLA, Piler, Andhra Pradesh
I am very happy to know that the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India is
celebrating its 20th Anniversary journey in the services of rural India. Panchayati Raj is one of the nearest
and dearest institutions to the people of villages in rural India. The AGRASRI noble mission is bringing
transformation and sustainable development at the grassroots level since its inception. It is not an
exaggeration to say that the AGRASRI has devoted its entire expertise and mechanism how to make the
elected representatives at the village level as grassroots policy makers for delivering public services in an
effective manner through training and advocacy with a team of eminent scholars and administrators over
a period of time. The track record of AGRASRI over a period of 2 decades assumes many laurels and
appreciations from the top brass of policy makers.
The name and fame of any leader is depending upon the quantum of services extended to the
underprivileged people at the village level first and later at other higher levels. It is a fact that many of the
AGRASRI programmes designed and executed to mould the leadership capabilities and skills of the
grassroots leaders for achieving the self-sufficient Village Republics in India. It is a testimony that after the
Capacity Building and Training Programmes for nearly 16, 000 elected representatives of Panchayati Raj
Institutions in Chittoor District by AGRASRI in collaboration with the AP Academy of Rural Development
has made several milestones in village administration.
As Chairman of the Chittoor Zilla Praja Parishad, I know the difficulties and problems in bringing
the alteration in the mindset of the elected representatives in a positive manner for delivery of good
governance. I have no doubt that the AGRASRI has succeeded in this attempt and got many laurels and
appreciations not only from the lowest rung level elected representatives but also from the highest rung
level of administrators for the way and execution of its obligation towards the Gram Swaraj.
Mahatma Gandhi envisioned that the Gram Swaraj is fulfilling only through the government
welfare schemes reached to the every beneficiary in the society irrespective of caste, religion, race or sex.
Keeping in view in mind, the policy makers at the helm of the affairs brought many reforms and innovative
schemes through Panchayati Raj Institutions from time to time. The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act is
one the revolutionary reforms in Independent India for brining the administration to the doorsteps of
rural people. In this way, the AGRASRI is in a humble way but in a concrete manner working for good
governance at the grassroots level since 2001. Power to the People and Self-sufficient Village Republics in
India is the noble mission for the AGRASRI.
I had an opportunity to participate in the AGRASRI programmes on Panchayati Raj and Rural
Development. I really impressed and overwhelmed the way of delivery of services extended to the elected
representatives of PRIs through training, education, research and advocacy by the AGRASRI, despite
financial constraints and lack of infrastructural facilities. The overall objective of the AGRASRI is how to
reach the people with mission and vision for delivering public services in an effective manner. Extension
of desired services to the people in villages with a passion is not easy task to sustain for a long period with
financial hurdles and constraints. However, the AGRASRI has successfully completed 20 fruitful years in
the services of rural people with vision and mission.
I take this opportunity of wishing the AGRASRI for reaching several milestones and glorious
heights in the fields of Panchayati Raj, Rural Development and other allied areas in the near future.

2001-2021
AGRASRI: A Visionary Organisation for Rural Transformation in India
SHRI JUSTICE D. SUBRAHMANYAM
Former Chairman, Andhra Pradesh Commission for Backward Classes, Govt. of AP and
Former Judge, Andhra Pradesh High Court, Hyderabad
Sustainability of any responsible organisation over a period of time is a daunting task in achieving
the stipulated goals and outputs in the changing scenario at the national and global levels. Dedicated
organisations are getting laurels and appreciations from various segments of society only after they
delivered good services and estimated targets in its agenda. Today, we have very limited organisations in
the category of merit in our country due to various reasons.
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is one of such meritorious
organisations at the national level in many respects. The completion of 2 decades of the journey of the
AGRASRI in the services of rural India is a commendable and memorable with many impressive
achievements and triumphs. I can say that the AGRASRI journey is a noble one in achieving Mahatma
Gandhi’s dream Gram Swaraj and Rajiv Gandhi’s vision Power to the People, through research, training,
education and advocacy since its inception. The AGRASRI major aim is to transform the grassroots level
elected representatives as visionary grassroots policy makers in delivery of public services in a decent and
responsible manner.
I had an opportunity to associate with the AGRASRI as President of the Executive Council for a
period of 3 years. During my tenure the AGRASRI has studied many ground realities of the functioning of
the Panchayati Raj system at the grassroots level in a deeper manner and brought out some very useful
reports in rectify the loopholes and drawbacks in the existing system by the concerned policy makers.
I appreciate the indisputable efforts and commitment of the Founders of AGRASRI Dr. D. Sundar
Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar for maintaining qualitative and comprehensive agenda for the Self-
sufficient Village Republics in India, without conflicting their stipulated agenda with honesty and
principles. As a jurist, I confessed that the way of functioning and style of the AGRASRI is an impartial
manner and found that the entire team richly deserves the admiration for work culture and dedication
under the nurture of its Founders.
India is a conglomeration of villages in its breadth and width of vast territory from Kashmir to
Kanyakumari. Providing full fledged public utilities and services to the people of rural areas is a
challenging agenda since Independence. Various governments at the Centre and States have been incurred
huge outlay through various welfare and developmental schemes in rural India. Unfortunately, even after
7 decades of Independence, our policy makers and administrators are not in a position to provide full
fledged civic amenities and welfare measures to the vast populace of the country. Achieving the prosperity
and overall development in India requires the partnership of governments, private sector, civil society and
citizens alike to make sure we leave a better India for future generations.
Today, the Panchayati Raj Institutions are playing a key-role in achieving the sustainable
development at the grassroots level. The world is now become the global village. Think globally and act
locally is the mantra in recent times across the World. The AGRASRI is characterising this mantra as its
objective and working for desired outcomes at the village level. I hope that the AGRASRI would succeed in
its journey for genuine rural transformation in contemporary India.
I wish and congratulate the AGRASRI Founders and its dedicated team in achieving many more
triumphs in its long-lasting goal of Self-sufficient Village Republics in India.

2001-2021
AGRASRI’s Work Really Belongs to AGRASRENI (Top Class)
DR. T. HANUMAN CHOWDARY
Chairman, Pragna Bharati and Former IT Adviser to Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad
Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom, so goes the wise saying of great statesmen. Vigilance
involves constructive and critical appraisal of policies of political parties and governments. Poverty has
been coeval with human existence. Poverty has been sympathized with and the poor are extolled as
blessed people by great persons, Seers, Rishis, Prophets and of course, vote-seeking, power-mongering
politicians and political parties throughout the ages, especially so in India since we gained freedom from
the British slogans like garibi hatao were broadcast among our people with terrific effect . However,
poverty did not go away. The poor continue to be wooed.
Since the past few years, regional parties especially in the South and more pronouncedly in the
two Telugu states, political parties through their governments have been showering kanukas (gifts) of
public money, credited into the accounts of the poor. This is having mesmerising effect in the people in
rural areas where Panchayats had been brought into existence years ago.
Although the percentage of the rural population at 85 % in 1951 (32 crores) has come down to
68% (93 crores); the rural population is now 2.9 times more than in 1951. Huge amounts are being spent
upon different schemes with claims that the tears and pains of the poor will be wiped out.
The AGRASRI founded by the public-spirited Dr. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar 20 years
ago has been doing commendable work in assessing the various rural development schemes, their
implementation, effectiveness and the change that was expected to be brought by Panchayati Raj and the
increased attention to the welfare of the people, especially in the rural areas.
AGRASRI has conducted a number of seminars and arranged lectures on different subjects by
eminent people. It has been bringing out periodicals and reports with contents from the lectures and
discussions that it has been arranging. Some of great moment are: Political Transformation in India-
Designing for Good Governance (with Foreword by the renowned Jurist M Venkatachaliah, Former Chief
Justice of India); Quest for Political Stability in India: Essays on Governance, Polity and Development by
Dr. Sundar Ram, Gram Sabha Institution in India by the same author and many others. All these are of
permanent value and relevance.
AGRASRI’s 20th anniversary will bring out its Progress Report in 2021 to mark the occasion. I am
sure it will contain valuable articles. That will be also an occasion when AGRASRI should take up a project
to performance and utility of the unprecedented experiment of having Grama and Ward Sachivalayas in
Andhra Pradesh engaging a few lakhs of persons to deliver several welfare services to the targeted
people in their homes. The cost benefit ratio and the conclusions and suggestions that would be
forthcoming from this study may lead to the extension of this new program in other states in India.
Finally, I compliment Dr Sundar Ram and his team for their excellent, dedicated and inspired work
over the last two decades, paucity of financial resources notwithstanding.
I wish AGRASRI and Dr Sundar Ram God-speed and society’s recognition of his dedicated
scholarship and service to society and governments.
As gold is tested in four ways by rubbing, cutting, heating and beating -- so a man
should be tested by these four things: his renunciation, his conduct, his qualities
and his actions.
-CHANAKYA

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Marching Ahead for the Service of Panchayati Raj
DR. R. A. PADMANABHA RAO
Additonal Director-General (Retd.), Doordarshan, New Delhi
Working for self-sufficient village republics since the last 2 decades towards rural development by
the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) under the dynamic leadership of Dr D
Sundar Ram is progressing well. The eminent constitutional expert Dr Subash C. Kashyap is the mentor of
this organisation. I am also associated with the organisation since 2005 while I was working with TTD,
Tirupati. Along with Shri Solipeta Rama Chandra Reddy, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), I have
attended 3 National Seminars organised by AGRASRI.
Dr Sundar Ram took voluntary retirement from a reputed PG Centre of Acharya Nagarjuna
University to serve the rural folk through the organisation. Several eminent personalities are associated
with the organisation over two decades. They include Dr. C. Rangarajan, Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, Dr.
Subhash C. Kashyap and Prof. V. R. Panchmukhi and others. The main thrust is training, research,
education and advocacy in panchayati raj, rural development, women empowerment, youth development
and good governance. It is heartening to know that the institute over a period of 20 years has arranged
Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture programs in memory of late Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi.
The institute established at the holy feet of Lord Balaji in Tirupati is recognised by several Central
Government Organisations with regard to significant contributions and services to the panchayath raj
institutions. Eminent personalities-Governors, Speakers, Central Ministers and State Ministers attended
the functions arranged by Dr Sundar Ram, who is the dedicated worker at the grassroots levels. With his
limited resources he organised several functions with high standards.
The Centenary Celebrations of Chittoor District and its Formation Day Lecture and Awards in eight
categories are one among them. He is assisted by his wife Mrs. Bharathi in performing remarkable
seminars over the years. Every year, the institute presents Rajiv Gandhi National Awards in seven
categories through a transparent selection. It includes Outstanding Leadership, Best District Panchayati,
Best Taluk Panchayati, Best Gram Panchayati, Mahila Shakthi, Yuva Shakthi and Gram Swaraj National
Awards. The awardees are selected through a three tire process catering to all the states of India.
The Grassroots Governance Journal launched by Shivraj Patil, Speaker of 10th Lok Sabha is
recognised as a research journal by the Universities and UGC. Dr Sundar Ram with his undaunted efforts
has brought out several research publications with the themes of panchayati raj, rural development,
women empowerment and good governance. All these research works are acclaimed by eminent
personalities as research oriented publications at the national and international levels.
The institute conducts regular trainings during the year and several members of the Panchayati
Raj institutions have been trained by Dr Sundar Ram. It was joint collaboration with AP Academy of Rural
Development and Chittoor District Administration. Dr Sundar Ram is known for conducting national level
seminars throughout the last two decades. Besides parliamentarians and senior bureaucrats, several
functionaries of panchayati raj institutions attended the seminars/trainings.
My Hearty Congratulations to Dr Sundar Ram for running the Institute with Devotion, Dedication
and Determination.
Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function
as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things.
-WINSTON CHURCHILL

2001-2021
AGRASRI: A Vibrant Institution in the NGO Sector at the National Level
SHRI K. KARUNAKAR PATTNAIK, IAS (RETD.)
Former Director, State Institute of Rural Development, Govt. of Odisha, Bhubaneshwar
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) are only 20 years old with
multiples of laurels to its credit. I know and have been watching with interest, its activities, and
programmes, headed by its captain Dr Sundar Ram for more than 14 years. This may be one of a few select
and vibrant institutions in the Non-Governmental sector in the country to have done marvellous work in
the fields of Panchayati Raj, Rural Development besides education, advocacy, empowerment of women
and the youth, the main thrust being on training and research.
The asset and vision of this organisation is magnified by the association of some of the best minds
of the country from the realm of education, political leadership and exponents of national eminence in the
fields of economics, science and technology, sociology and politics. Conferment of national awards
branded as ‘Rajiv Gandhi National Awards’ every year is a reminder to everyone, of the spectacular
contribution made by one of India’s illustrious Prime Ministers Late Shri Rajiv Gandhi. AGRASRI’s other
important areas of activities of course include observance of its foundation day and other specific events
but the main landmark area is research and training. It has published to its credit several research papers
and books containing writings of very eminent and outstanding writers from different fields.
I have had the privilege of securing some of the publications which were of immense economic and
social value. Besides research, training is one of the main focus areas of AGRASRI. I have been watching
with keen interest the training programmes being organised in multiple sectors of development, focusing
on women empowerment, rural youth and above all, the elected representatives at the local level(rural
and urban), besides outreach programmes organised at different places at local, state and national levels.
These largely contribute to the might of this organisation and over the years, it has become a pedestal on
which the socio-cultural and economic foundations of people living in the rural and inaccessible pockets
have been laid. All these have been largely developed due to the indomitable strength and lust for work by
Dr. Sundar Ram and his team mates. On this 20th year of Foundation Day, I can only salute the groups of
people who have done so much for the people of the State and beyond and wish them the best of health
and sustained endeavour.
I must from my heart congratulations to AGRASRI Founders Dr. Sundar Ram and Mrs. Bharathi
Sundar and the whole lot of his team. The organisation has done so exceedingly well over the years
particularly in the realm of Panchayati Raj particularly that it is really difficult to identify a match to
AGRASRI. This organisation deserve all accolade in maintaining spirit, ideal and ideals of Panchayati Raj
which many organisations have either forgotten or see them in the oblivion today so also many State
Governments. I convey my sincere greetings to the AGRASRI organisation for completing 20 years of its
incredible achievements.
Man with all his noble qualities, with sympathy which feels for the most debased, with
benevolence which extends not only to other men but to the humblest living creature,
with his god-like intellect which has penetrated into the movements and constitution of
the solar system- with all these exalted powers- Man still bears in his bodily frame the
indelible stamp of his lowly origin.
-CHARLES DARWIN

2001-2021
AGRASRI: 20 Years Journey in Panchayati Raj and Rural Development
PROF (MRS) B. VENGAMMA
Director-cum-Vice Chancellor, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences, Tirupati, AP
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI), an autonomous,
independent, non-political, non-profit and Professional Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has been
offering yeomen service since its inception in 2001. True to its motto SarveBhavanthuSukhinaa
[Prosperous Life with Inclusive Growth by all]AGRASRI has been striving provide an environment suitable
for the study and promotion of academic research, training, policy advocacy and networking in grassroots
democratic institutions for self-sufficient Village Republics in India.
As envisaged by the social activist couple Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. BharathiSundar, Founder
and Co-founder of the Academy, AGRASRI has aimed at promoting research, training, consultation, and
change of scholarship and information dissemination in the thematic areas of Panchayati Raj and Rural
Development; Women Empowerment; Social Justice; Micro-planning; Good Governance; Grassroots
Democracy; Information Technology; Society and Environment and Youth Development not only in the
state of Andhra Pradesh but beyond as well.
AGRASRI is recognised as Nodal Agency/Technical Support Institute by the Govt. of India and Govt.
of Andhra Pradesh, for imparting Capacity Building and Training Programmes for the elected
representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Youth Leaders and Self-Help Group Members, in 2010.
The Academy has also instituted awards to honour academic merit of eminent scholars. I had the
good fortune of being the recipient of "The Chittoor District Centenary Special Jury Award for the Year-
2016" by the Academy on the occasion of the 107th Chittoor District Formation Day, April 1, 2017.
The Academy has won appreciations from distinguished academicians, policy makers and eminent
scholars, in recognition of its multi-dimensional activities and programmes. The journey of AGRASRI from
very humble beginnings to its present status which is playing such a key role of advocacy in the
development of Panchayati Raj in the country has been impressive and the efforts of the Academy in
supplementing governmental efforts to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions and securing increasing
empowerment of women in India over the last two decades has been inspiring and commendable.
Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high, where knowledge is free.
Where the world has not been broken up into fragments by narrow domestic walls.
Where words come out from the depth of truth, where tireless striving stretches its
arms toward perfection. Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way into the
dreary desert sand of dead habit. Where the mind is led forward by thee into ever
widening thought and action. In to that heaven of freedom, my father, Let my Country
awake!
-RABINDRANATH TAGORE

2001-2021
AGRASRI: A Pioneer in Grassroots Studies and Governance in India
PROF. A. DAMODARAM
Director, School of Information Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Hyderabad
(Formerly Vice-Chancellor, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati)
I am happy to learn that Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI), ICSSR
recognised research organisation, Tirupati, is being completed 20 Years of its journey in the services of
rural India in the year-2021 and releasing the Progress Report on this happy occasion.
Since its founding in the year 2001, AGRASRI has made phenomenal progress over the years and is
now reaching all corners in the field of Grassroots Studies and Governance in the Country. In achieving
the goal of Self-sufficient Village Republics in India, AGRASRI provides a bridge between the policy
makers, elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, academicians, administrators and
researchers under the nurture of the Founders Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar. The
commitment and dedication towards the ‘power to the people’ by the AGRASRI Founders over a period of 2
decades is appreciable and commendable.
I had an occasion to participate in few of the programmes of AGRASRI, when I was the Vice-
Chancellor of Sri Venkateswara University at Tirupati and I am glad to know that the capability and
purpose of the programmes designed by the AGRASRI in reaching to the targeted people at the grassroots
for sustainable development.
The discourse and dissemination of knowledge is need of the hour to the young researchers on
rural development by adopting latest rural applied technologies and techniques in the 21st century. Gram
Swaraj through Grassroots Democracy is the major concept of AGRASRI, as envisioned by our Father of the
Nation Mahatma Gandhi. Our country is living in villages. If the villages are flourished, the country reached
the goal of sustainable development in all the fields.
Today, our Governments spent huge money for the rural development and inclusive growth.
Attaining the inclusive growth, the inclusive governance is very much essential. For this the elected
representatives needs appropriate skills, technologies, capacities and capabilities in formulating the wise
and impressive policy making. In recognise this requirement, the AGRASRI is imparting the Capacity
Building and Training programmes for the elected representatives of PRIs from time to time and mould
them as perfect grassroots policy makers in many respects.
It is very happy to learn that the AGRASRI has designed many innovative academic as well as
research programmes on grassroots studies and governance. The organisation has published a large
number of research books in collaboration with New Delhi based Publishers, besides publishing bi-annual
publication, The Grassroots Governance Journal since 2003.
I take this opportunity to express my appreciation to all the members involved in the organisation
of the AGRASRI and I appreciate Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar, for their hard work and
relentless effort and I wish all success in future endeavours.
Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind. It is mightier than the mightiest
weapon of destruction devised by the ingenuity of man.
-MAHATMA GANDHI

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Working for Self-sufficient Village Republics in India
SHRI VENKATRAO Y.GHORPADE
Vice-President, Karnataka State Panchayati Raj Parishat, Bengaluru
I have been associated with the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI)
for a little over a decade. When AGRASRI was founded by a social activist couple Dr. Sundar Ram and Mrs.
D. Bharathi Sundar on November 12, 2001, I happened to be the President of Ballari Zilla Panchayat in
Karnataka. Therefore, AGRASRI, with its headquarters at Tirupati, has given me ample opportunities to
scientifically develop my concepts and understanding in the field of local governance, decentralised
planning and development with equal emphasis on women empowerment.
This was possible because of the untiring effort, commitment and cooperation provided by Dr.
Sundar Ram couple under the enriched guidance of Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, former Member of
Parliament and Union Minister for Panchayati Raj, who inaugurated AGRASRI on August 20, 2002, and
continues to receive his guidance even to this day.
The Academy has the support and guidance of eminent personalities. Over the years, the Academy
has organised 16 Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture programmes since 2002, and has invited eminent
personalities in different walks of life to come and deliver their inaugural lectures.
Academy has instituted the Rajiv Gandhi National Awards in 7 categories to recognise best
practices at the Gram Panchayat, Taluk Panchayat, Zilla Panchayat, Mahila Shakti, Yuva Shakti and
Outstanding Leadership in establishing 'Gram Swaraj' which was the dream of Mahatma Gandhi.
It is my privilege and honour to mention that I have been a recipient of one such award, namely,
Rajiv Gandhi Gram Swaraj National Award for the Year- 2015.
The Academy publishes a bi-annual Research Journal, called the 'The Grassroots Governance
Journal' in the months of June and December every year. I have had the privilege to contribute articles to
this journal. The Academy has successfully published 17 volumes of this journal since 2003. The Academy
is planning to bring out an 'Online Edition' of this journal to mark the two decades of service in Panchayati
Raj and Rural Development. And I am again privileged to mention that my article titled 'Empowerment
and Capacity Building of PRIs' has been accepted by the Academy for publication in this first online
edition.
One of the main focuses of the Academy has been on Capacity building and Training programmes,
especially at the Gram Panchayat level and has paid extra attention to the SC/ST communities. Over the
years it has imparted training to about 20,000 elected representatives in collaboration with the Andhra
Pradesh Academy of Rural Development, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh.
Besides encouraging regular research activities in the field of Panchayati Raj, the Academy has
published several research books and organised several National Seminars/ Conferences/ Workshops and
Round-Table Meetings over a period of 2 decades.
All these initiatives of the Academy over the years have made AGRASRI, Tirupati, a centre of
excellence in the field of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development. And the rich experience that I have
personally gained by my close association with the Academy through Dr. Sundar Ram has enabled me to
contribute meaningfully to the development of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Karnataka state.
I was a Member of the K R Ramesh Kumar Committee that amended the Karnataka Panchayat Raj
Act, 1993, by bringing in about eighty five new clauses that focused mainly on capacity building and
empowerment for greater participation of the people to function as units of Gram Swaraj. The newly
amended Act is called 'Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, 1993, that came into effect on 25
February, 2016.

2001-2021
And this newly amended Karnataka Act on Panchayati Raj and Rural Development has been rated
by Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar as the best in the country. And a lot of indirect credit for this goes to AGRASRI,
Tirupati, and to Dr. Sundar Ram in particular for his constant encouragement in his capacity as Director of
the Academy.
@@@@@@@@@
EDITORIAL BOARD
Chairman
Prof. M. GOPINATH REDDY
Consultant
Centre for Economic and Social Studies, Hyderabad
E.mail: mgopinathreddy@gmail.com
Editor
Dr. SUNDAR RAM
Founder and Director, Academy of Grassroots Studies
and Research of India (AGRASRI), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh
E.mail: drsundarram@gmail.com
Consulting Editor
Prof. YATINDRA SINGH SISODIA
Director, Madhya Pradesh Institute of
Social Science Research, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
E.mail: yatindra15@yahoo.com
ISSN: 0973-0257
The Grassroots Governance Journal
(A Window to Understanding Village Republics of India)
Published by:
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
(Including the Postal Charges in India and Abroad)
India Annual 3 Years 5 Years
Individuals 950 2,500 4,500
Institutions 1,250 3,800 6,500
The subscription should be made by DD/Cheque drawn in favour of Academy of Grassroots Studies
and Research of India (AGRASRI), Tirupati, payable at Tirupati, in any Nationalised Bank.
The Grassroots Governance Journal was launched by Shri Shivraj V. Patil, Hon’ble Former Speaker of
Lok Sabha, with the Inaugural Issue, Vol.1, No.1, Jan-June, 2003, on 25th August, 2003 at Tirupati.
The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Govt. of India, New Delhi, has provided the
Publication Grant to the Journal for 5 Years from 2011-12 to 2015-2016.

2001-2021
AGRASRI: Committed and Dedicated Social Science Research Institute
DR. GEORGE MATHEW
Chairman, Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi
First of all, let me congratulate the Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India
(AGRASRI) on the occasion of its 20th anniversary and send my greetings. I greatly appreciate the able
leadership and guidelines Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar, founders of this initiative, have
been giving to the AGRASRI during this period.
As a person closely associated with the AGRASRI during the last two decades, I can undoubtedly
state the good work the institution is doing in the country as a centre of excellence in the area of
grassroots studies and research in India, particularly in the areas of Panchayati Raj and Rural
Development; Women Empowerment; Social Justice; Micro-planning; Good Governance; Grassroots
Democracy; Information Technology; Society and Environment and Youth Development. Besides, the
AGRASRI has a good record of training, research and consultancy in the above fields, it has been
propagating the ideals and vision of late Shri Rajiv Gandhi towards self-sufficient ‘Village Republics’,
I am happy to note that in appreciation of the work, the AGRASRI is recognised as a Nodal
Agency/Technical Support Institute by the Govt. of India and Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, for imparting
Capacity Building and Training Programmes for the elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions,
Youth Leaders and Self-Help Group Members. The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Govt.
of India, is providing with the support of small Grant-in-Aid for Maintenance and Development to the
Academy from the Financial Year 2016-2017 onwards. Today, the AGRASRI is one of the committed and
dedicated Social Science Research Institutes in India.
I have known Dr. Sundar Ram from the very inception of the AGRASRI as a young committed social
scientist. The Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture and Awards and the publication, The Grassroots Governance
Journal, by AGRASRI are highly commendable. It is really appreciable and laudable that the AGRASRI is
organising the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture and conferring the Rajiv Gandhi National Awards for the
past 20 years without any break and disturbance despite so many financial hurdles and problems. The
participation of many distinguished and reputed policy makers itself a testimony to the dedication of
AGRASRI.
The Founders of AGRASRI committed to propagate the ideals and vision of Shri Rajiv Gandhi
towards the ‘Power to the People’ through various activities and programmes at the grassroots level. Every
year the AGRASRI conferring the Rajiv Gandhi Best Panchayat Awards on the role model elected
representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions across the nation receiving the laurels and attention of
policy makers at the grassroots. The AGRASRI is a blend of grassroots democracy and grassroots
governance in contemporary India.
On this occasion, I wish the AGRASRI to become a centre of excellence in engaging in strong
independent centre for grassroots research and studies with special reference to the areas of issues
affecting the rural people of India. I am sure that the publication of the AGRASRI 20 Years Progress Report
is useful to the researchers and academicians in Social Sciences.
As human beings, we are endowed with freedom of choice, and we cannot shuffle off our
responsibility upon the shoulders of God or nature. We must shoulder it ourselves. It is our
responsibility.
-ARNOLD TOYNBEE

2001-2021
AGRASRI: An Extraordinary Institution Working for Grassroots Democracy in India
PROF. YATINDRA SINGH SISODIA
Director, M.P. Institute of Social Science Research, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
Creating an organisation and keeping it alive for two decades is a herculean task. The Academy of
Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI) is nurtured and groomed by its founder Dr. D. Sundar
Ram. Since AGRASRI from the very beginning was keen to work on grassroots governance issues and my
area of research interest for more than two and half decade has been grassroots studies and therefore I
had a privilege to come in contact with this organisation from the initial years of its formation due to
mutual common research interest.
AGRASRI has a journey of two decades now and over the years the organisation has been able to
diversify its activities from research studies, to organisation of seminars, to holding memorial lectures, to
giving panchayat awards, to making research publications and also to work with Government to offer
valuable input on policy-related issues.
Despite all resource constrains, the organisation tried hard to continue its activities of all kinds
wherein the finances were involved. This is the ability of Dr. D. Sundar Ram that he has been able to
associate the individuals of repute from different walks of life. The organisation’s lecture series includes
the names of who’s who. His commitment to the strengthening of grassroots democracy has been
extraordinary. He made a significant contribution to knowledge generation in this sphere.
Bringing out Journal is a rigorous and painstaking academic exercise nevertheless he has been able
to continue on this path with zeal and sustained interest for a long time. He created a network of
individuals from various backgrounds to consolidate the strength of the organisation for serving society. I
have had chances to engage directly with the activities of organisation over a period of time in different
capacities.
The organisation has been aimed to principally work for the marginalised and vulnerable sections
of the society for the issues of their immediate concern are the testimony of organisation’s commitment.
I congratulate AGRASRI for its impressive journey under the tutelage of Dr. D. Sundar Ram for two
decades and I sincerely offer my best wishes for all its future endeavours to serve the last person of the
society and to work with a purpose.
If we would see our dream of Panchayat Raj, i.e., true democracy realised, we would
regard the humblest and lowest Indian as being equally the ruler of India with the
tallest in the land. This presupposes that all are pure or will become pure if they are
not. And purity must go hand-in-hand with wisdom. No one would then harbour any
distinction between community, caste and out-caste. Everybody would regard all as
equal with oneself and hold them together in the silken net of love. No one would
regard another as untouchable. We would hold as equal the toiling labourer and the
rich capitalist. Everybody would know how to earn an honest living by the sweat of
one's brow and make no distinction between intellectual and physical labour.
-MAHATMA GANDHI

2001-2021
AGRASRI: An Institution Par Excellence Working for Power to the People
K. P. SAROHA
Former Commissioner of Departmental Inquiries, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), New Delhi
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India is one of the dedicated and Par Excellence
research and training Institutions in India for power to the people since 2001. First, I had an
opportunity to evaluate the work of the AGRASRI when I was the Under Secretary at the Union Ministry of
Panchayati Raj, Govt. of India. I really impressed with the track record of the AGRASRI and its objectives
for empowerment of Panchayati Raj Institutions. Based on the considerable work done by the AGRASRI at
the grassroots, the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj has sponsored the National level Seminar and
Conference held in 2006 and 2007.
Consequently, I had a privilege to monitor the AGRASRI activities when the Union Ministry of
Panchayati Raj finalising 62 high profiled policy makers, experts, administrators and scholars for the Indo-
Pak Delegation led by the then Union Minister for Panchayati Raj in the year 2007. As key member in the
Indo-Pak Delegation assignment, Dr. Sundar Ram, Director and Founder of the AGRASRI was one of the
youngest Members in the Indo-Pak Delegation. Similarly, I had an occasion to communicate to Dr. Sundar
Ram, as one of the Members in the Indo-Norway Delegation also led by the then Her Excellency, the
Norway Minister for Local Government and Regional Development Ms. Magnhild Meltviet Kleppa.
The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj once appreciated the initiatives and vision of AGRASRI for
conferment of the Best Panchayat National Awards at the District, Taluk and Gram Panchayats level since
2005. As the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj also planned to introduce the similar National level
Panchayat Awards, I contacted several times Dr. Sundar Ram for sending the approaches and modalities in
the selection of the Nominees by the Jury. Really it is a great that the AGRASRI Panchayat awards have
paved the way to establish the National Panchayat Awards in different categories by the Union Ministry of
Panchayati Raj since 2006.
I have been watching with keen interest the innovative programmes being organised by the
AGRASRI for empowerment of women and youth in Panchayati Raj Institutions. It is a rare case in the
country side that the commitment and hard work shown for strengthening Panchayati Raj Institutions by
a single man army like AGRASRI Founder and Director Dr. Sundar Ram. Of course, behind these
endeavours, several constraints, challenges and sleepless nights involved and sacrificed.
No doubt, all these have been largely achieved due to the indomitable energy and passion for work
at the grassroots level by Dr. Sundar Ram and his dedicated team mates, particulary the Co-founder of
AGRASRI Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar, over a period of 20 years.
As a closed monitor and reviewer of the work by AGRASRI at the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj,
I must say without any hesitation that the AGRASRI deserves to receive abundant support and
encouragement in all respects from Union and State Governments, Philanthropists, Donors and Panchayati
Raj Institutions in continuing its journey for the coming decade with more and more innovative and
inspirational programmes and activities in achieving its goal ‘Self-sufficient Village Republics in India’. As
researcher and trainer, Dr. Sundar Ram has always thinking globally and acting locally and we must
recognise and award him full marks for the grassroots tree he planted in the shape of AGRASRI.
I suggest that under the CSR Fund, the AGRASRI may adopt few Gram Panchayats in AP and
transform them as role model Gram Panchayats in near future, as a replica in rural India.

2001-2021
 ABOUT ACADEMY OF GRASSROOTS STUDIES AND RESEARCH OF INDIA
 Genesis of AGRASRI
Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India (AGRASRI), Tirupati, was founded by social
activist couple Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar. It came in to existence on 12th November,
2001, which was registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860, as autonomous, independent,
non-political, non-profit and Professional Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), being headquartered at
Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The motto of AGRASRI is Grama Swaraj through Grassroots Democracy.
The Academy was formally inaugurated by the champion of decentralisation movement in India
Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, the then Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), New Delhi, on 20 August,
2002 at Tirupati. It is founded to provide an environment suitable for the study and promotion of
academic research, training, policy advocacy and networking in grassroots democratic institutions for self-
sufficient Village Republics.
The primary object of the academy is to develop a sound and efficient grassroots democratic
system in India for achieving the Gandhian dream of Gram Swaraj. This is a unique Academy in the field of
Grassroots Studies and Governance in India. It provides a bridge between the elected representatives of
Panchayati Raj, Nagar Palika Institutions, academicians, researchers, administrators and others working in
the field, under the nurture of Dr. D. Sundar Ram and Mrs. D. Bharathi Sundar, Founder and Co-founder of
the Academy.
The Academy of Grassroots Studies and Research of India is a good fortunate to have a
distinguished policy makers and scholars, as source of inspiration and support, for implementing its aims
and objects for fulfilling the Gandhian dream Gram Swaraj through Grassroots Democracy.
Dr. C. Rangarajan, Former Chairman, Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister of India, New
Delhi, is the Hon. Visitor of the Academy. Shri Mani Shankar Aiyar, Former Union Minister for Panchayati
Raj, Govt. of India, New Delhi, is the Hon. Chief Patron.
Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, eminent Constitutional expert and Former Secretary-General of Lok Sabha,
New Delhi, is the Founder Chairman of the Academy. Prof. V.R. Panchamukhi, eminent economist and
Former Chairman of the Indian Council of Social Science Research, Govt. of India is the Chairman of the
Board of Governors, while Dr. Tripuraneni Hanuman Chowdary, Former IT Adviser to the Govt. of Andhra
Pradesh, is the Chairman of the Hon. Board of Advisers of the Academy. Several distinguished policy
makers, administrators and scholars have been associated with the Academy, as Members of its Board of
Governors, Board of Advisers, Executive Council, and as Distinguished Fellows, Visiting Senior Fellows,
Visiting Fellows and Guest Faculty Members.
The main aim of the Founders of the Academy was that the organisation should not only stimulate
a proper study of panchayati raj administration but also train directly a number of elected representatives
of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Self-Help Group (SHG) Members, Youth leaders and Social activists in the
discipline, art and practice of administration for good governance at the grassroots in contemporary India.
In pursuance of the aims and objectives of the AGRASRI towards strengthening grassroots
democratic Institutions as self-sufficient Village Republics in India, a number of academic and research

2001-2021
activities have been organised since its inception, include Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Lecture, AGRASRI
Foundation Day Lecture, Chittoor District Formation Day Lecture, Rajiv Gandhi National Awards (in 7
Categories) and Chittoor District Centenary Awards (in 8 Categories) conferment programmes. The
Academy has an outstanding track record of research, training, education and advocacy in the field of
panchayati raj, rural development, women empowerment, youth development, capacity building and
leadership training; good governance, sanitation, environment and sustainable development, micro-
planning, rural applied technology, and allied areas of rural India, since its inception.
The Academy has recognised as Nodal Agency/Technical Support Institute by the Govt. of India and
Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, for imparting Capacity Building and Training Programmes for the elected
representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions in the Year 2010. The Academy is registered under Foreign
Contribution (Regulation) Act of 2010. The Academy is also registered under 12AA of Income Tax Act,
1961 and NGO-DARPAN of NITI Aayog, Govt. of India. The Indian Council of Social Science Research
(ICSSR), Govt. of India, New Delhi, is recognised the AGRASRI as Research Organisation and providing a
small Grant-in-Aid for Maintenance and Development to the Academy, since the Financial Year 2016-2017
onwards.
 Vision of the Academy
The Vision of Academy is to enhance the people’s participation in development programmes and
sound management of rural local self-governments through grassroots democracy and process of
democratic decentralisation in the form of statutory Panchayati Raj Institutions, as self sufficient Village
Republics in India.
The major research thrust of Academy is in the areas of Grassroots Governance (Panchayati Raj),
Urban Governance (Nagar Palikas), Women Empowerment, Socio-economic Development and allied
subjects. The Academy shall strive to open new vistas of development dialogue between the micro and
macro approaches on the grassroots democracy support initiatives for generating new ideas and
dissemination of its knowledge for fulfilling people’s aspirations for genuine Village Republics in India,
through research, training, education and advocacy.
 Mission of the Academy
Academy’s mission is to:
a) Cater the needs of elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Municipal bodies and
administrative personnel of Panchayati Raj and Nagar Palika administration;
b) Bridge the communication gap between the officials and non-officials of the Panchayati Raj and
Nagar Palika Institutions;
c) Conduct innovative study and research on contemporary political and socio-economic issues and
problems in an inter-disciplinary perspective and to make available its findings and
recommendations to the key policy makers at the helm of affairs for an appropriate action;
d) Open a new vistas of the Academy’s programmes to various professional organisations in India
and abroad for strengthening grassroots democratic theories and ideas; and
e) Build regional, national and international networks, with organisations working on grassroots
studies and research.
 Objectives of the Academy
The main objectives of the Academy are to:
 promote and conduct research on multi-dimensional facets of the human development in rural
India;

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