Health and Education Standing Committee

In Kerala’s three-tier Panchayati Raj system (Grama Panchayat, Block Panchayat and District Panchayat), the Health and Education Standing Committee is one of the important committees constituted to facilitate effective and efficient administration.

The members of this committee are elected from among the elected Ward Members of the Panchayat governing body. The major responsibilities, functions and significance of the committee are described below:

Major Duties and Areas of Responsibility

1. Public Health and Sanitation

  • Evaluate the functioning of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Family Health Centres (FHCs) within the Panchayat.
  • Plan preventive measures to control the spread of communicable diseases, including Dry Day observance and mosquito control activities.
  • Monitor activities related to waste management, including the functioning of Haritha Karma Sena and source-level waste management.
  • Ensure the cleanliness and safety of drinking water sources.

2. Education

  • Improve the physical infrastructure and facilities of Government and aided schools, including primary and upper primary schools, under the Panchayat.
  • Ensure the proper implementation of mid-day meal programmes, drinking water facilities and sanitation facilities in schools.
  • Prepare programmes to prevent school dropouts and provide digital learning facilities in educational institutions.

3. Social Welfare and Nutrition

  • Monitor the functioning of Anganwadis and ensure that children, pregnant women and lactating mothers receive adequate and nutritious food.
  • Promote sports and recreational activities by developing playgrounds and providing support to local clubs and related initiatives.