History of Block Panchayat
Perinthalmanna Block Panchayat is an important local self-government institution in Malappuram District, Kerala. It forms the intermediate tier of Kerala’s three-tier Panchayati Raj system, functioning between the Grama Panchayats and the District Panchayat. The Block Panchayat plays an important role in coordinating rural development, welfare programmes, infrastructure development and various government schemes in its area.
The history of the Perinthalmanna region is closely associated with the historic Valluvanad region. Angadipuram, which is part of the present Perinthalmanna Block, was historically an important centre and the capital of the Valluvanad kingdom. The region has a rich cultural and historical heritage, represented by places such as the Thirumandhamkunnu Bhagavathy Temple, Thali Mahadeva Temple and other traditional heritage sites.
During the British period, Perinthalmanna and the surrounding areas formed part of the administrative structure of the erstwhile Valluvanad region. Perinthalmanna Taluk was formed in 1957. Following the formation of Malappuram District in 1969, Perinthalmanna Taluk became part of the newly formed district.
With the development of the Panchayati Raj system in Kerala, local self-government institutions became an important part of decentralized governance. The Kerala Panchayat Raj Act, 1994 strengthened the three-tier Panchayati Raj system consisting of Grama Panchayats, Block Panchayats and District Panchayats. Perinthalmanna Block Panchayat functions as an important institution within this decentralized governance structure.
At present, Perinthalmanna Block Panchayat comprises eight Grama Panchayats:
- Aliparamba Grama Panchayat
- Angadippuram Grama Panchayat
- Elamkulam Grama Panchayat
- Keezhattur Grama Panchayat
- Melattur Grama Panchayat
- Pulamanthole Grama Panchayat
- Thazhekkode Grama Panchayat
- Vettathur Grama Panchayat
The Block Panchayat covers an area of approximately 266.44 sq. km. and is divided into 19 divisions. It works towards improving the quality of life of the rural population through development programmes in areas such as agriculture, health, education, housing, sanitation, social welfare, infrastructure, women and child development, and livelihood promotion.
The region is also known for its diverse natural and cultural heritage. Hills such as Kodikuthimala, the natural landscapes of Nenmini, the Kunthippuzha river, the heritage of Angadipuram, Poonthanam Illam, and the Ayurvedic heritage of Pulamanthole are among the notable features of the wider Block Panchayat area.
