The office of the VDO came into existence in India with the promulgation of the Panchayat Raj Act, of 1948. The VDO is an important functionary of the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) at the village level. The VDO is mainly responsible for planning and implementing development programs in the village, Mobilization of resources for development activities, Collection of taxes and other revenues due to the panchayat and Maintenance of village records.
This blog post provides complete information about the VDO Full Form, its functions, responsibilities, and role in village development.
What is the Full Form of VDO?
The full form of VDO is Village Development Officer. The VDO is responsible for the development and planning of village infrastructure and amenities. The VDO is also known as Gram Vikas Adhikari in some states. He or she works with the village panchayat, government officials, and other stakeholders to ensure that the village has access to basic services and facilities. The VDO also coordinates with different agencies to implement development schemes in the village.
What is a VDO (Village Development Officer)?
The Village Development Officer is a panchayat representative responsible for the implementation of government schemes at the village level. The VDO works with the Gram Panchayat to ensure that development projects are completed and services are provided to villagers.
The VDO is responsible for preparing the Annual Plan of Operation (APO) for the Gram Panchayat. The APO outlines the developmental activities to be undertaken by the Gram Panchayat in a financial year. The VDO also monitors the progress of these activities and reports back to the Gram Panchayat on a regular basis.
The VDO (Village Development Officer) has a pivotal role in ensuring that government schemes are implemented effectively at the village level. He/she works closely with various stakeholders such as Block Development Officers, District Panchayat Officers, and project implementing agencies to ensure that development projects are executed as per plan.
The Gram Vikas Adhikari also acts as a link between the Gram Panchayat and the district administration. He/she represents the Gram Panchayat in district-level meetings and coordinates with various district-level functionaries on behalf of the Gram Panchayat.
Read Also – Dhani Personal Loan
The duties of a VDO (Village Development Officer)
The duties of a Village Development Officer are many and varied, but can be summarized as follows:
- Acting as the principal point of contact between the village and the district administration
- Facilitating the implementation of government schemes and programs in the village
- Mobilizing villagers for development activities and ensuring their participation in decision-making processes
- Undertaking surveys and feasibility studies for development projects
- Identifying potential areas for development and preparing project proposals
- Supervising the construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, schools, etc.
- Organizing training programs for villagers on various aspects of rural development
The Educational Requirements for Becoming a Village Development Officer (VDO)
The educational requirements for becoming a Village Development Officer are a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university, although a degree in social work or rural development is preferred. Candidates must also have completed 10+2 level education with minimum 50% marks. In addition, they must have passed an examination conducted by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices.
Salary for VDO (Village Development Officers)
The salary of a VDO depends on the size of the village and the number of schemes being implemented there. However, on average, a VDO earns around Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 22,000 per month. The job outlook for VDOs is positive as there is a growing demand for their services in rural areas.
How to Become a Village Development Officer
The Village Development Officer is the key functionary at the village level in rural development. He/she acts as a link between the government and the people at the grassroots level. The Gram Vikas Adhikari is responsible for implementing various government schemes and programs at the village level.
Here are the steps to becoming a VDO:
- Complete your Class 10 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
- Obtain a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university.
- Pass the State Eligibility Test (SET) conducted by the State Public Service Commission in order to be eligible for selection as a VDO.
- Appear for and clear the written examination conducted by the Commission for the selection of VDO.
- Undergo training as prescribed by the government before being appointed as a VDO.
The Benefits of Being a VDO
The benefits of being a Village Development Officer are many and varied. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the increased income that comes with the job. However, there are also other benefits that are not so immediately apparent. For instance, being a VDO gives one a sense of purpose and belonging. It also instills a deep sense of pride in oneself and one’s village. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to serve one’s community and make a difference in the lives of others.
Read Also – Jio 1GB Data Loan
FAQs
Q. What is the role of a VDO?
Ans. A VDO is responsible for the planning and implementation of development programs at the village level. He/she also acts as a link between the villagers and the government machinery.
Q. What are the main responsibilities of a Gram Vikas Adhikari?
Ans. Some of the main responsibilities of a VDO include: drafting development plans, preparing project proposals, mobilizing resources, coordinating activities, monitoring progress, and evaluating results.
Q. How is a VDO appointed?
Ans. A VDO is appointed by the District Collector/Magistrate on the recommendation of the Gram Panchayat. The appointing authority has to be satisfied that the candidate possesses the prescribed qualifications and is otherwise suitable for appointment.
Conclusion
The full form of VDO is Village Development Officer. A VDO is responsible for the development and planning of a village or small town. They work with the locals to identify needs and problems, and then develop solutions to improve the quality of life in the village or town.
VDOs are often involved in projects such as building roads, improving sanitation, providing healthcare, and developing education programs. If you are interested in working for the betterment of a community, then becoming a VDO might be the perfect career choice for you.
