National Study Report reveals active Gram Sabha participation and quorum awareness are low in Nagaland despite high attendance.
KOHIMA — A survey has shown that despite strong attendance in Gram Sabha meetings in villages, active participation in discussions and decision-making remains low in Nagaland, and a majority of citizens are unaware of quorum provisions.
This was stated in the National Study Report on "Low Participation in Gram Sabha across States and Union Territories", released in June 2026 by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
The findings indicate high levels of awareness regarding Gram Sabha meetings in Nagaland at 97.92%, with 81.69% of respondents aware of their rights in the Gram Sabha. However, active participation in the Gram Sabha stands at 62.08%, and only 45.42% are aware of quorum requirements.
The data shows that although attendance levels were relatively strong in meetings, active participation levels were comparatively moderate, suggesting that attendance does not always translate into active engagement in deliberations.
Also read: Nagaland women among lowest in Gram Sabha participation
Moreover, data shows that awareness regarding quorum provisions was relatively weak, with the majority unaware of whether a quorum is achieved during Gram Sabha meetings. This indicates a need for greater awareness regarding the procedural aspects of Gram Sabha functioning.
Regarding inclusiveness and participation experience in Nagaland, findings indicate relatively broad participation across social groups in Gram Sabha meetings, including men, youth, and women. SHG members and elderly citizens were also identified as important contributors to Gram Sabha discussions.
However, the participation of line department officials was reported to be limited, with data indicating that officials do not regularly participate in Gram Sabha meetings. Meanwhile, migrant households and elderly citizens emerged as the groups perceived to be the least represented in Gram Sabha meetings. Further, as per the survey, it was reported that their panchayat is not women-friendly, indicating continuing gaps in gender representation and institutional inclusiveness.
Regarding infrastructure and the enabling environment for Gram Sabha meetings, the findings indicate that Nagaland has relatively good availability of basic infrastructure for conducting Gram Sabha meetings, although some villages lack facilities to accommodate larger community gatherings. A lack of adequate seating arrangements and separate toilet facilities were also reported.
The expenditure pattern in Nagaland indicates that Gram Sabha meetings are generally conducted with moderate financial allocations, with reports stating expenditures of between INR 5,000 and INR 10,000 per meeting.
The survey shows that GP funds and scheme funds emerged as the principal sources of financing, while own-source revenue, CSR, and donations contributed to a lesser extent.
Major expenditure was incurred on refreshments, drinking water arrangements, logistics, sanitation activities, and documentation, reflecting efforts to facilitate community participation and ensure the smooth conduct of meetings.
Overall, the findings suggest that Gram Sabha meetings in Nagaland are supported primarily through panchayat and scheme-based resources, with expenditure focused on essential operational and participant-support requirements.