Sri Vijaya Puram | February 19, 2026
In a proud moment for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, two Gram Panchayat leaders from the Union Territory were honoured at the national level for their contribution to grassroots governance.
Ms. Rita Dhali, Pradhan of Kishori Nagar Gram Panchayat, and Ms. Jyothi, Pradhan of Sippighat Gram Panchayat, were felicitated during a 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 Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, S. P. Singh Baghel.
The ceremony recognised exemplary elected Panchayat representatives from across the country for their role in strengthening rural administration and local self-governance. The selection of the two women leaders highlights the growing presence of dynamic grassroots leadership from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at the national stage.
Their efforts in promoting village-level development, ensuring transparency in governance, and improving living standards for rural families in Kishori Nagar and Sippighat were acknowledged during the event.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the importance of Panchayat representatives in driving rural development and reinforcing democratic values at the grassroots level.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, both Ms. Dhali and Ms. Jyothi thanked the Ministry and reaffirmed their commitment to continue working for the welfare and overall development of their respective Gram Panchayats.
The ceremony was attended by senior Ministry officials, Panchayat representatives from various States and Union Territories, and other dignitaries. The recognition on the eve of Republic Day is expected to inspire other Panchayats across the Islands to further strengthen inclusive and transparent rural governance.
