Village Organizations Activities for Rural Development in North West, Pakistan: a Case Study of Two Union Councils of District Shangla

The present study was conducted with the core objectives to study the role of village organizations (VOs) in the execution of Malakand Rural Development Project (MRDP) development interventions in District Shangla, NWFPPakistan. The study also explores the structure and functioning of VOs in the study area. Data were collected from two union councils, namely Shahpur and Kozkana. A total of 80 members of VOs were interviewed. It was observed that most of the respondents formed the VOs because of getting inspiration from the development work of the VOs s in other MRDP project area. Twenty five percent of the respondents mentioned that education and motivation are the main yardsticks for VOs formation. Thirty percent of the respondents held the opinion that main activities of VOs were to increase irrigation water and maximize agricultural production. Majority (72%) respondents mentioned that they arrange VOs meeting on monthly basis. Seventy five percent of the sample respondents reported for VOs network with other VOs of the area, which are mostly made for the acquiring of land for development interventions. The difficulties faced in the formation of VOs shortlisted as, are lack of awareness, cultural constraints, lack of capacity building and reluctance of the local people to NGOs in the area. As this can be addressed through creation of awareness by increase visit, trainings and allocation of more funds.