History of Block Panchayat

Parappa Block Panchayat

Parappa Block Panchayat is one of the newest Block Panchayats in Kerala. It was constituted in 2010 as part of the reorganization of Local Self-Government Institutions in the State. Prior to its formation, the areas that now come under Parappa Block Panchayat were part of the Nileshwar Block Panchayat and the Kanhangad Block Panchayat.

Considering the vast geographical area, unique topographical characteristics, and developmental needs of the eastern hilly region of Kasaragod district, the Government of Kerala decided to establish a new Block Panchayat with its headquarters at Parappa.

The primary objectives behind the formation of the new Block Panchayat were:

  • To improve administrative efficiency.
  • To strengthen decentralization and the system of local self-governance.
  • To ensure the effective implementation of development programmes in hilly, remote, and tribal areas.
  • To deliver various Central and State Government schemes to the people more efficiently.

Parappa Block Panchayat is situated in the eastern highland region of Kasaragod district. Forming part of the foothills of the Western Ghats, the region is renowned for its rich biodiversity, forest resources, rivers, mountain ranges, and tourist destinations.

The Block Panchayat comprises seven Grama Panchayats, namely:

  • Panathady
  • Kodom-Belur
  • East Eleri
  • West Eleri
  • Kallar
  • Kinanoor-Karindalam
  • Balal

The Block covers an area of 542.72 square kilometres and has a population of 181,247 people. Approximately 22% of the population belongs to Scheduled Tribes.

Nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this region is a confluence of rich folk traditions, tribal heritage, religious harmony, cultural practices, and agricultural traditions.

Theyyam, folk songs, temple festivals, and the celebrations of various religious communities add vibrancy and colour to the cultural life of Parappa. Tribal communities such as the Malavettuvan, Mavilan, and Karimpalan continue to preserve their unique customs, traditional knowledge, and cultural heritage.

Through exemplary interventions in participatory governance and rural development, Parappa Block Panchayat has gained national recognition. Its achievements in governance and development were acknowledged at the national level when it received the Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Public Administration under the Aspirational Blocks Programme.

Established in 2010, Parappa Block Panchayat was created to bring governance and development closer to the people of the eastern highlands of Kasaragod district. Today, it has evolved into a dynamic local self-government institution that leads comprehensive and sustainable rural development in the region.