Punjab E News: The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI), India’s largest rural governance data platform and a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India, has won the Gold Award at the National e-Governance Awards 2026.
The award was presented during the 29th National Conference on e-Governance in Jaipur, recognising the platform’s contribution to strengthening digital governance and data-driven rural development.
The achievement marks a major milestone for Punjab cadre IAS officer Vipul Ujjwal, whose efforts played a key role in the success of the Panchayat Advancement Index.
The Panchayat Advancement Index enables data-based assessment of Gram Panchayats, supports evidence-based planning, improves transparency and accountability, and helps governments deliver better rural development outcomes.
The Gold Award recognises the platform as one of India’s leading digital governance initiatives, highlighting its role in transforming grassroots governance through technology and data.
