A Study of the contribution from Pradesiya Saba to rural sustainable development (With reference to Rambukkana Pradesiya Saba)

Abstract

Rural development actions mostly aim at the social and economic development of the areas. Rural development programs are usually top-down from the local or regional authorities, regional development agencies, NGOs, national governments or international development organizations. But then, local populations can also bring about endogenous initiatives for development. The term is not limited to the issues for developing countries. In fact many of the developed countries have very active rural development programs.The main aim of rural government policy is to develop the undeveloped villages. Pradesiya Saba is the lowest part of the administration hierarchy of Sri Lanka. The problem of this study is to examine if there is efficient contribution from Pradesiya Saba to rural sustainable development in Sri Lanka. The main objective is to identify the contribution from Pradesiya Saba to sustainable rural development. This study has used both primary data and secondary data: primary data was collected from 100 families from five villages, teachers, Samurdi development officers, Gramaseva Niladari officers, public health inspectors, AGA and two politicians, using interview schedule. Secondary data was collected from books, magazines, and records of the government. Data has been analyzed by using tables, graphs and percentages. However, there are several limitations. This study is limited to Rabukkana Pradesiya Saba, 100 families from five villages. According to the collected data it can be concluded that there is a considerable contribution from Pradesiya Saba to rural development in Sri Lanka. There are some weaknesses in Pradesiya Saba system, therefore, several recommendetions can be made. These are: the relationship between villages and the Pradesiya Saba should be expanded, funds should be distributed properly, the village resources must be identified by the Pradesiya Saba, and there should be programs to encourage the youth to participate in political activities. Those are the responsibilities of the government and policy making bodies in Sri Lanka.