Index Institute of Management, Arts and Sciences, under Malwanchal University, successfully conducted a dialogue session on “The Role of Gram Panchayats in Rural Development.” The event brought together more than 35 sarpanches and panchayat representatives to honor their contributions toward rural progress. Dr. Lokeshwar Singh Jodhana, Registrar of Malwanchal University, highlighted Index Group’s growing role in rural transformation, alongside its established reputation in medical and higher education. Through the adoption of five villages, the institute aims to bridge educational and skill gaps in rural areas. Various skill-oriented courses have been launched to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment under the university’s Enterprise Skill Center.

The discussion saw rich contributions from local governance leaders. Sarpanch Nathusingh Sendhav from Chapra underscored the growing expectations from Gram Panchayats in modern India, where responsibilities extend well beyond water and sanitation to include education, health, and economic development. Mukesh Chauhan emphasized the creation of empowered villages through sustainable initiatives in health, education, and employment. Vice District President Mr. Subhash Chaudhary remarked that the future of India depends on the transformation of its villages, and the youth must be guided toward productive paths through entrepreneurial training and social awareness.

Speakers such as Joginder Singh Tomar, Sarpanch of Mordahat, highlighted the importance of teaching rural youth how to market local products in urban platforms like malls and marketplaces. The Index Institute’s infrastructure and academic support, especially through its entrepreneurship programs, can play a vital role in enabling this. Mementos were awarded to sarpanches by dignitaries including Dr. Sanjeev Narang, Dr. R.C. Yadav, Mr. Rupesh Verma, and Mr. Abhay Kher. This event reaffirmed Index Institute’s commitment to social responsibility and its proactive role in shaping a stronger, self-reliant rural India.