NANDYAL: Nandyal district collector G. Rajakumari has announced enhanced cash incentives for gram panchayats that elect their sarpanches and all ward members unopposed in the upcoming 2026 local body elections. The rewards will range from ₹15 lakh to ₹50 lakh, depending on the village population.
Under the revised scheme, panchayats where the sarpanch and all ward member positions are filled unopposed will receive the incentives. The government issued orders through GO RT No. 1111 to promote harmony, unity and collective participation in village administration and reduce political rivalries and disputes during elections.
According to the revised guidelines, gram panchayats with a population of up to 5,000 will receive ₹15 lakh. Those with a population of 5,001 to 10,000 will get ₹25 lakh, while panchayats with more than 10,000 people will be eligible for ₹50 lakh.
Earlier, the incentives ranged from ₹5 lakh to ₹20 lakh, depending on population. The revised scheme increases the financial benefits, particularly for larger panchayats.
The collector said the incentive would be applicable only when the sarpanch and all ward member positions were officially declared unopposed by election authorities in accordance with election rules. The eligibility of each panchayat would be verified before the funds were released.
The amount must be used exclusively for approved village development works and public welfare programmes, in accordance with prescribed financial and audit procedures. Funds will be released in phases during the tenure of the elected panchayat.
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