CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND PREPARATION OF DPRs
CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND PREPARATION OF DETAILED PROJECT REPORTS (DPR) FOR BACKWARD PANCHAYATS AND REVENUE DEFICIENT MUNICIPALITIES IN KERALA UNDER KERALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICE DELIVERY PROJECT (KLGSDP)
(WORLD BANK ASSISTED PROJECT)
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND OF THE PROJECT
The consultancy services being provided encompass two critical aspects: needs assessment and the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPR) specifically tailored for backward Panchayats and revenue deficient municipalities situated in the state of Kerala. These essential services are an integral component of the Kerala Local Government Service Delivery Project (KLGSDP), which operates with the support of the World Bank and is strategically designed to bolster local governments by bolstering their financial capabilities, ultimately leading to the enhancement of service quality and delivery to the citizens. At its core, the KLGSDP aims to elevate the standards of service provided by local governments by harnessing contemporary planning and development methodologies, efficient project execution, and a transparent administrative framework. The overarching objective is to not only elevate revenue streams but also to optimize financial resources, thereby tangibly improving the overall well-being of the populace.
Underpinning this initiative is a comprehensive proposal that designates a substantial financial allocation of Rs. 4.00 crore for each of the 40 backward Panchayats, 10 tribal Panchayats, and 10 revenue deficient municipalities. This allocation is intended for the establishment of crucial physical infrastructure assets that will serve as cornerstones for community development. In order to ensure the judicious utilization of these allocated funds and the successful execution of projects in the identified Panchayats and municipalities, experienced non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with a proven track record of collaborating with local governments have been meticulously chosen to provide expert consultancy services. These services encompass the thorough assessment of needs specific to the regions and the meticulous preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPR) tailored to each selected project. Through this comprehensive approach, the KLGSDP aims to usher in a transformative era of growth and development, paving the way for improved living conditions and elevated service standards for the citizens of Kerala.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
1. Conduct a comprehensive need assessment study to identify infrastructure development requirements within Backward Panchayats, Tribal Panchayats, and revenue-deficient Municipalities across the State.
2. Develop proposals for financing appropriate projects that align with the identified needs of these local governments, utilizing the available funds under KLGSDP.
3. Focus on the meticulous preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for each project, as identified and approved by KLGSDP for every local administrative body.
COMPONENTS AND ACTIVITIES OF THE PROJECT
1. Identify the requirements of the selected Local Body intended for funding. Address the gaps in infrastructure or asset creation that will gradually contribute to resolving the identified causes of backwardness.
2. Identify appropriate projects to enhance revenue mobilization. Develop action plans to increase revenue for revenue-deficient Municipalities.
3. Perform a comprehensive assessment of the degree of backwardness in various sectors like drinking water, health services, education, energy, communication, roads, and other infrastructure within the local body.
4. Prioritize the top 4-5 needs of Local Governments that are implementable within 8-9 months. Priorities should ideally boost economic development and revenue inflow, eventually lifting the LGs out of backwardness. This assessment should also include a basic readiness evaluation of identified projects, considering factors like land availability and relevant conditions.
5. Document projects identified for each local body as a result of the aforementioned steps. Submit the documentation to KLGSDP after obtaining local body approval.
6. Prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), including feasibility studies, detailed cost estimates, Bill of Quantities (BOQ), designs, and drawings as required for each proposed project. Ensure that DPRs align with the Environmental Safeguard Management Framework (ESMF) and include mitigation measures and their costing and design. Address Vulnerable Group Development Framework (VGDF) requirements if applicable to KLGSDP projects.
7. Submit subprojects for each Local Self Government (LSG) to entities like Gram Sabha or Ward Sabha for approval. Modify DPRs based on LSG directives, if necessary, until obtaining preliminary approval. Requirements of ESMF and VGDF should be appropriately documented and addressed.
8. Facilitate the entire process in consultation with the local government. Employ scientific techniques such as surveys, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), and Rapid Rural Appraisal (RRA) to assess backwardness intensity. Collaborate with diverse client groups for project identification and location.
TARGET AREA OF THE PROJECT
The project’s scope encompasses three distinct regions in Kerala namely Veeyapuram Gram Panchayat in Alapuzha district, Peruvanthanam Gram Panchayat in Idukki district, and Mavelikkara Municipality in Alapuzha district. These areas have been chosen as project targets to undertake an extensive needs assessment and formulate comprehensive project reports for the development of physical infrastructure assets, aimed at addressing the identified challenges of underdevelopment and revenue deficit within these local bodies.
TARGET GROUPS AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT
The project’s target groups included the entire community residing in the designated regions, with the overarching objective of providing benefits to local residents through the implementation of initiatives delineated in the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs).
FUNDING PARTNER OF THE PROJECT
The project received funding from the Kerala Local Government Service Delivery Project (KLGSDP), Local Self Government Department, Government of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram. The KLGSDP project was itself financed by the World Bank.
SANCTIONED BUDGET OF THE PROJECT
The KLGSDP sanctioned the assignment in 2016, through a contract dated 07.06.2016. The project was allocated a total budget of Rs. 19,99,857.00 for a duration of twelve months.
OUTCOMES AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE PROJECT
The following outcomes and achievements have been accomplished after the successful implementation of the assignment:
1. An exhaustive and meticulous study was undertaken to meticulously discern the specific requirements for infrastructure development within backward Panchayats, tribal Panchayats, and revenue-deficient municipalities situated across the state.
2. Comprehensive project proposals were meticulously crafted, taking into account the available funding under the aegis of the Kerala Local Government Service Delivery Project (KLGSDP).
3. For each individual local administrative body, comprehensive Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) were meticulously prepared. These comprehensive reports delineated the intricate details of each project, encompassing an in-depth analysis of feasibility, financial implications, and projected outcomes.
4. Flawless execution and diligent monitoring were executed to ensure that the allocated funds were optimally utilized and to meet the well-defined needs of the respective local governments (LGs).
5. A meticulous needs assessment was conducted to discern and illuminate the existing gaps in infrastructure and the creation of vital assets across various sectors, including but not limited to potable water, healthcare provisions, education, energy and communication networks, road infrastructure, and other key facilities.
6. An essential preparatory assessment of the identified projects was methodically undertaken, incorporating crucial factors such as land availability and pertinent contextual conditions.
7. The application of scientifically sound techniques including surveys, Participatory Rural Appraisals (PRA), etc., was judiciously executed to methodically evaluate the degree of underdevelopment and identify projects of utmost priority. These methodologies were undertaken through a consultative process involving various stakeholder groups.
