Enhancing the efficiency of public participation in planning for development in rural areas of Puducherry

Abstract

Public participation is a crucial process that involves citizens in decision-making processes aimed at improving or developing their built environment. However, this process faces several challenges, particularly in developing countries, where citizens often lack motivation to participate due to various factors that determine the efficiency of public participation, such as information exchange and citizen involvement. To address these challenges, a study was conducted to identify an effective process for public participation in rural areas of Puducherry, India. It is important to note that Puducherry was chosen as the focus of this study due to its rural setting and the need to address the challenges of public participation in decision-making processes in such areas. The study involved an opinion survey, and respondents were categorized into four groups: planning officers, traditional leaders, youth leaders, and household heads. The study found that ineffective communication, attitude towards participation, and difficulty in attending public participatory meetings due to their locations were critical issues in public participation programs. These factors resulted in insignificant public awareness and understanding to support effective participation. Additionally, ineffective empowerment and contextual impediments such as a lack of public orientation were identified as barriers to the program. The study recommends a framework to improve communication, encourage adequate participation, effective empowerment, and alleviate the impact of impeding factors for effective public participation. The recommendations provided by this study will guide potential practitioners, lawmakers, and academicians in developing effective public participation programs in rural areas of India. This study highlights the importance of understanding the challenges faced by citizens in participating in public decision-making processes and the need for effective communication and empowerment strategies to encourage and facilitate their involvement.