To ensure development works in their panchayats are not affected during their absence, sarpanches and panches in Punjab will now be required to take prior approval from the state government before travelling abroad.

The Department of Rural Development and Panchayats has introduced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for elected panchayat representatives, making it mandatory for them to seek leave sanction before leaving the country.

The provision of “Ex-India Leave”, which was earlier applicable only to government employees and MLAs, has now been extended to sarpanches and panches as well.

In a letter issued to all Additional Deputy Commissioners and District Development and Panchayat Officers (DDPOs), the Director of Rural Development and Panchayats has listed the SOPs to be follo

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