Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb. 18: In a proud moment for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, two dedicated Gram Panchayat leaders from the region have been honoured at the national level for their outstanding contribution to grassroots governance.
Smt. Rita Dhali, Pradhan of Kishori Nagar Gram Panchayat, and Smt. Jyothi, Pradhan of Sippighat Gram Panchayat, were felicitated during a special ceremony organised by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in New Delhi on January 25, 2026, on the eve of the 77th Republic Day. The awards were presented by the Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S. P. Singh Baghel.
The event recognised exemplary elected Panchayat representatives from across the country. The selection of both leaders underscores the emergence of strong and dynamic grassroots leadership from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is a moment of immense pride for the Union Territory, as two of its women Panchayat representatives earned national appreciation for strengthening rural governance and deepening local democracy.
Their sustained efforts in promoting village-level development, ensuring transparent governance, and improving the quality of life for rural families in Kishori Nagar and Sippighat were widely appreciated by dignitaries present at the ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Minister emphasised that local leaders form the backbone of India’s rural progress and play a crucial role in reinforcing democracy at the grassroots level.
Expressing gratitude, both Smt. Rita Dhali and Smt. Jyothi thanked the Ministry and the Hon’ble Minister for the prestigious recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to work tirelessly for the welfare and holistic development of their respective Gram Panchayats.
The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, Panchayat representatives from various States and Union Territories, community leaders, and distinguished guests. The Republic Day recognition stands as an inspiration for other Gram Panchayats across the Islands to strive towards stronger grassroots governance and inclusive rural development.