THE CIVIC-DEVELOPMENT CONVERGENCE- INSTITUTIONALISING POLITICAL VOLUNTEER NETWORKS FOR GRASSROOTS PLANNING IN ASSAM

This article examines a major challenge in decentralised governance in Assam, where public mobilisation coexists with continued difficulties in implementing the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP). The study uses qualitative secondary document analysis, reviewing government policy documents, administrative reports, and regional political literature to identify key barriers to effective grassroots planning and participation. Based on the findings, the paper proposes the Civic–Development Convergence Model. The model recommends integrating existing youth volunteer networks into trained, nonpartisan community development roles. This model approach transforms shifting these groups away from occasional protest-based activity and trains them instead as certified, neutral community facilitators. It also provides a practical framework to increase participation in village assemblies and strengthen transparency and accountability in rural governance across Northeast India.